Oral Pathology

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 of a pathological process. The most serious of these is oral cancer. If you have questions about oral pathology call our Davis office at 530-753-0550.

The following can be signs at the beginning of a pathologic process or cancerous growth:

• Red patches (erythroplasia) or white patches (leukoplakia) in the mouth
• A sore that fails to heal and bleeds easily
• A lump on the tissue lining the inside of the mouth

These changes can be detected on the lips, cheeks, palate, gums, and tissue around the tongue, face and/or neck. Pain does not always occur with pathology, and curiously, is often not associated with early 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 recommend performing an oral cancer self-examination regularly, and having regular examinations done at your routine visits to your family dentist. 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.