Naperville & Channahon Oral Pathology

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 for a pathological process. The most serious of these is oral cancer.

The following can be signs at the beginning 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 on the skin lining the inside of the mouth
• Chronic sore throat or hoarseness and/or difficulty in chewing or swallowing

These changes can 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 also be at risk for oral cancer.

We would recommend performing an oral cancer self-examination monthly. Remember that your mouth is one of your body’s most important warning systems. Do not ignore suspicious lumps or sores. Please contact us so we can assist you with any questions or concerns.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ABOUT ORAL PATHOLOGY: 

• What are some common oral pathologies?
  Common oral pathologies include conditions like oral cancer, periodontal disease, temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders, benign oral lesions (such as mucoceles or fibromas), and infections like oral thrush. Each condition can affect various parts of the mouth and requires different treatment approaches.

• How are oral pathologies diagnosed?
  Oral pathologies are typically diagnosed through clinical examinations by our oral surgeons. In some cases, additional tests like biopsies, X-rays, CT scans, or lab cultures may be necessary to confirm the diagnosis and determine the severity of the condition.

• What are the symptoms of oral diseases?
  Symptoms of oral diseases can vary, but they often include pain, swelling, difficulty swallowing, bleeding gums, sores or lesions in the mouth, a persistent bad taste, and changes in the color or texture of oral tissues. Early detection of symptoms can lead to better treatment outcomes.

• How can I prevent oral pathologies?
  Preventing oral pathologies involves maintaining good oral hygiene by brushing and flossing regularly, avoiding tobacco use, limiting alcohol consumption, eating a balanced diet, and attending regular dental checkups. These practices can help prevent many oral diseases and catch issues early before they become serious.