Oral Pathology
Symptoms of Oral Cancer
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 pathologic 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
- 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.
Self-Examination
We would recommend performing an oral cancer self-examination monthly and 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 may help.
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Mission Office
Mission Office Phone Number 913-722-3253 Overland Park Office
Overland Park Office Phone Number 913-897-5297 Email Us
In Office LASER Procedures for Oral Pathology
Dr. Oakley utilizes a Carbon Dioxide (CO2) LASER in many of his oral pathology treatments. Use of the CO2 LASER many times eliminates the need for sutures, dramatically reduces postoperative swelling and virtually eliminates postoperative bleeding. Please ask about use of our in office LASER for your treatments.