Oral Pathology
The oral cavity is lined with mucosa, a smooth, soft, pink skin. Any changes in its appearance could signal a pathological process, including oral cancer. While most oral lesions are not serious, any alterations should be examined by an oral surgeon.
Signs to watch for include red or white patches, sores or ulcers that don’t heal, lumps on the tongue, lips, or gums, and changes in jawbone shape. During a consultation, an oral surgeon will conduct a detailed examination and may recommend a biopsy to remove tissue for microscopic analysis by a pathologist, leading to a definitive diagnosis. Depending on the biopsy results, further surgical removal of the lesion may be necessary.
Regular dental check-ups every 6 months are crucial for early detection of oral abnormalities.