Oral Cancer and Oral Pathology

Evaluation & Treatment of Oral Pathology

Periodic examinations of the skin and mouth can detect early warning signs of cancer. Our surgeons should evaluate lesions of the face and mouth that do not heal within two weeks. Concerning signs are red or white patches, ulcers that do not heal, persistent swelling, sores that bleed, sores with firmness or thickening, or pigmented skin lesions. Asymmetry, Border irregularity, Colour variegation, and large Diameter. Factors that may contribute to cancer include tobacco and alcohol use, excessive sun exposure, and family history.

.Early signs of a pathologic process or cancerous growth include:

Reddish patches (erythroplakia) or whitish patches (leukoplakia) in the mouth;

A sore that fails to heal and bleeds easily;

A lump or thickening on the skin lining the inside of the mouth;

Chronic sore throat or hoarseness; and

Difficulty in chewing or swallowing.

These changes can be detected on the lips, cheeks, palate and gum tissue, or around the teeth, tongue, face and/or neck. Pain does not always occur with pathology and curiously is not often associated with oral cancer. However, any patient with facial and/or oral pain, without an obvious cause, may also be at risk for oral cancer.