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Diagnosing and treating oral disease early
The inside of the mouth is normally lined with a special type of skin (mucosa) that is smooth and coral pink in color. Any alteration in this appearance could be a warning sign of a pathological process. The most serious of these is oral cancer.
Warning signs to watch for
The following can be early signs of a pathological process or cancerous growth: reddish patches (erythroplasia) or whitish patches (leukoplakia) in the mouth; a sore that fails to heal and bleeds easily; a lump or thickening in the lining of the mouth; and chronic sore throat, hoarseness or difficulty chewing or swallowing. We recommend performing an oral cancer self-examination monthly, and seeing Dr. Loving promptly if you notice any of these changes so they can be examined and, if needed, biopsied.
What to know about oral pathology
- Examination of sores, lumps and tissue changes
- Biopsy and diagnosis of suspicious areas
- Early detection of oral cancer
- Guidance on monthly self-examination
- Prompt, expert evaluation when you are concerned