Oral Pathology – Signs to Look For
Your mouth is lined with a special type of skin called mucosa. It’s responsible for the smooth, pink surface inside of your mouth. However, it can be susceptible to problems beyond periodontal disease. Watching for alterations in its color or texture can help you prevent bigger problems, like oral cancer.
Look for the following warning signs on your lips, cheeks, roof of your mouth and gum tissue:
- Reddish patches (Erythroplakia) 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.
Surprisingly, you might not experience gum pain or mouth pain when you begin to experience oral pathology.
The best bet for prevention is to practice good oral hygiene, visit your dentist regularly and practice an oral cancer self-evaluation monthly.
Your mouth is one of your body’s most important warning systems. Don’t ignore lumps or sores, and if you notice something between visits – please contact us immediately. We’ll talk with you about how to treat gum disease.
