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 or cancerous growth. Possible warning signs may include:
These changes can be detected on the lips, cheeks, palate, or gum tissue around the teeth, tongue, face, and/or neck. Pain is not always necessary to define 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 recommended performing oral cancer self-examination monthly and ask you to remember that your mouth is one of your body’s most important warning systems. Do no ignore suspicious lumps or sores; please contact us as soon as possible so we may help you.
If you feel that you or someone you know has any of the symptoms that have been discussed, or if you have any questions and/or concerns, please do not hesitate to contact our office so we may be of some assistance to you.