What is oral pathology?
Oral pathology refers to the study of diseases affecting the mouth, jaws, and related structures. It includes conditions like infections, cysts, tumors, and cancers that can affect the soft tissues and bones in the mouth.
Introduction
Understanding Oral Pathology and Its Warning Signs
The inside of your mouth is normally covered by a special type of skin called mucosa, which is smooth and coral pink in color. When this appearance changes, it can indicate a potential health issue, with the most serious being oral cancer. Recognizing early signs of abnormal changes in the mouth is crucial for prompt diagnosis and treatment.
What are the most common signs of oral cancer?
The most common early warning signs include persistent sores, lumps, white or red patches, unexplained bleeding, or a change in voice or swallowing ability. These symptoms often appear in the mouth, lips, tongue, or throat.
How do I perform an oral cancer self-exam?
To perform a self-exam, inspect your lips, cheeks, gums, tongue, palate, and the roof and floor of your mouth. Look for any unusual sores, lumps, or discoloration. Gently feel your mouth with your fingers for any abnormal growths or areas that feel thicker than normal.
Common Signs of Oral Pathology:
Red or White Patches
- Erythroplasia (reddish patches) or Leukoplakia (whitish patches) on the inside of the mouth could be early indicators of an underlying pathological process, including oral cancer.
Sores That Won’t Heal
- A persistent sore that does not heal within two weeks, especially one that bleeds easily, is a red flag for possible oral cancer or other serious conditions.
Lumps or Thickening
- A noticeable lump, swelling, or thickened area on the mucosa, gums, tongue, or other parts of the mouth should not be ignored. These could signal growths that need to be evaluated.
Chronic Sore Throat or Hoarseness
- Ongoing throat discomfort or changes in voice, like hoarseness, can be symptoms of an oral or throat condition that requires attention.
Difficulty Chewing or Swallowing
- Trouble with eating, swallowing, or moving the jaw could indicate a serious issue, including oral cancer.
Why Choose Dr. Urban?
Scott D. Urban, MD, DMD, FAACS, specializes in Facial Cosmetic Surgery and Oral Maxillofacial Surgery. He loves the practice of healing, helping, and serving. As one of the finest surgical practices in Utah, Dr. Urban’s Utah Facial Surgical Arts can provide you with level care in facial cosmetic surgery and oral maxillofacial surgery. Our state-of-the-art surgery center, located in West Jordan, was constructed to the strict standards required for Joint Commission accreditation. In September 2012, Utah Facial Surgical Arts became Utah’s first office-based facial cosmetic and oral maxillofacial surgical practice to be awarded the Gold Seal of Approval accreditation by the Joint Commission. Joint Commission accreditation is considered the highest standard for medical and surgical accreditation. This facility has established the standard for providing the safest level of care possible as an office-based surgical center. Utah Facial Surgical Arts should be your undeniable choice for lip fillers in the Salt Lake City area.
Dr. Urban is triple board-certified in facial surgery by the American Board of Cosmetic Surgery (ABCS), the American Board of Facial Cosmetic Surgery (ABFCS), and the American Board of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery (ABOMS). Dr. Urban is a Fellow of both the American Academy of Cosmetic Surgeons and the American Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons.
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