Cancerous and Precancerous Growths

Cancerous and Precancerous Growths

Know the Signs of Oral Cancer

Open your mouth, look into the mirror, and what do you see? Ideally, you’ll notice smooth, coral pink skin, known as “mucosa.” If you observe that your skin has changed in coloration, this could potentially be a warning sign of oral cancer. If you notice any of the following changes on the gum tissue near the teeth, tongue, cheeks, palate, lips, face, or neck, see Dr. Coyne for evaluation:

  • Reddish patches (erythroplasia) in the mouth
  • Whitish patches (leukoplakia) in the mouth
  • A sore that just won’t heal or bleeds with little provocation
  • Mucosa (skin inside the mouth) that has become thickened or lumpy
  • Chronic hoarseness or sore throat
  • Difficulty swallowing or chewing

While oral cancer may sometimes cause pain, pain is not always associated with oral cancer, which is one reason why it’s important to perform a self-examination of the mouth on a monthly basis. The mouth is one of your body’s critical warning systems. If you detect a suspicious lump or sore, call Coyne Oral Surgery as soon as possible. Early diagnosis and treatment may lead to an improved outcome.

Know the Signs of Oral Cancer

Open your mouth, look into the mirror, and what do you see? Ideally, you’ll notice smooth, coral pink skin, known as “mucosa.” If you observe that your skin has changed in coloration, this could potentially be a warning sign of oral cancer. If you notice any of the following changes on the gum tissue near the teeth, tongue, cheeks, palate, lips, face, or neck, see Dr. Coyne for evaluation:

  • Reddish patches (erythroplasia) in the mouth
  • Whitish patches (leukoplakia) in the mouth
  • A sore that just won’t heal or bleeds with little provocation
  • Mucosa (skin inside the mouth) that has become thickened or lumpy
  • Chronic hoarseness or sore throat
  • Difficulty swallowing or chewing

While oral cancer may sometimes cause pain, pain is not always associated with oral cancer, which is one reason why it’s important to perform a self-examination of the mouth on a monthly basis. The mouth is one of your body’s critical warning systems. If you detect a suspicious lump or sore, call Coyne Oral Surgery as soon as possible. Early diagnosis and treatment may lead to an improved outcome.