Oral Pathology in Kingsway, Burnaby BC

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. The following can be some of those signs:

• 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

There changes can be detected on the lips, cheeks, palate, gum tissue around the teeth, tongue, face, and/or neck. Pain is not always present to define 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.

We would recommend performing an oral cancer self examination monthly especially if you smoke. 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 you.

If you feel that you or someone you know have any of the symptoms that have been discussed or if you have any questions and /or concerns, please do not hesitate to contact our office so we may be of some assistance to you.