Oral Pathology San Diego CA

The inside of the mouth is normally lined with a special type of skin (mucosa) that is smooth and coral pink in color. Pathological changes may be signaled by a change in this appearance, including: 

• Reddish patches (erythroplasia) 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. Difficulty in chewing or swallowing.

These changes may be detected on the lips, cheeks, palate, and gum tissue 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 or reason may nonetheless be at risk for oral cancer.

Remember: your mouth is one of your body’s most important warning systems. Do not ignore suspicious lumps or sores. Perform an oral cancer self-examination regularly and contact us if you have any concerns.