Oral Pathology

root canal treatment

ORAL PATHOLOGY

Because the inside of the mouth is normally lined with a special type of tissue (mucosa) which is smooth and pink in color, changes can easily be seen, and oral cancer can be detected in the early stages. Performing self-examinations regularly will help in early detection of pathologic processes. Ideally, self-examinations should be done once a month. If you are a smoker, drinker or a user of smokeless tobacco you are at a higher risk of oral cancer and should see an oral surgeon for an exam.
The following can be signs of a pathologic process or cancerous growth:

  • Reddish patches
  • Whitish patches
  • A sore that fails to heal and bleeds easily
  • A lump or thickening of tissue
  • Chronic sore throat, hoarseness
  • Difficulty chewing and swallowing