Oral pathology refers to possible concerns with the soft tissues in your mouth, such as oral cancer. From the initial screening, to biopsy and treatment, we can help you each step of the way. In today’s blog, your Cerritos, CA, dentist talks about how we address common oral pathologies.
The Warning Signs of Oral Cancer
What warning signs are there for an oral pathology like oral cancer? People may experience sores or lesions in the mouth that don’t heal after two weeks. There could be rough patches in the interior of the mouth, and areas of red and white splotches in the interior of the cheeks. You could also experience changes to your voice, a persistent hoarseness or sore throat that doesn’t abate, or even unexplained weight loss. When you encounter symptoms like these, please reach out to our team right away.
Risk Factors
Common risk factors for oral cancer include excessive alcohol consumption, tobacco use, and overexposure to UV light. The issue is more likely to form in adults too. However, while these risk factors are common, people who don’t drink or smoke could also develop oral cancer, so be aware of any changes to the soft tissues in your mouth, and let us know if they occur!
Biopsy and Treatment
Our team will conduct a detailed screening with advanced imaging technology, so we can clearly see cancerous or precancerous areas of your mouth. If we find them, then we may order a biopsy, in which we take a sample of these tissues to be tested for oral cancer. Treatment options vary, and could include surgery to remove tumors or impacted tissues. You may also need to undergo chemotherapy or radiation therapy, and may benefit from restorative procedures. When caught in the early stages, the disease is much more treatable and the chances of recovery are higher, so be sure to see us at the first sign of trouble!
Preventive Actions
To help lower your risk, you can take steps like cutting back on your alcohol consumption, avoiding the use of cigarettes and other tobacco products, including vaping, and of course, wearing sun protection to lower the risk of excess UV light exposure. These actions can also help lower the risk of other forms of cancer too, and protect your overall health. If you have any questions about how we safeguard smiles and provide treatment, then contact our team today to learn more. We want to help you enjoy better oral health and safeguard your overall health too.
TALK TO OUR TEAM ABOUT ORAL PATHOLOGIES
To schedule a consultation and receive an oral cancer screening, then make an appointment with Cerritos Dental Surgery in California call 562-584-4082 today. We’re ready to conduct a screening and biopsy, and start you on the path to recovery.
