Oral Pathology (Cysts and Lesions)

Oral Pathology (Cysts and Lesions)

The average adult mouth is smooth and pink in color, any alteration of color or texture can be an indication of a pathological process. Indicators can include:

• Sores
• Lumps
• Difficulty chewing, biting, or swallowing
• Reddish or whitish patches
• Chronic Sore throat or hoarseness
• Thickening of the skin lining

Although these are common indicators do not ignore suspicious growths or lesions that are not listed above. It is possible for the cyst to grow which then hollows out the jaw bone causing it to fracture easily and may even damage adjacent nerves and teeth. Lesions or cysts are not commonly associated with pain or discomfort and can be found in or around the lip, cheek, palate and gum tissue areas. Although rare, if a cyst is left untreated in could develop into a tumor, which then requires a more invasive procedure to remove. The most serious of these is oral cancer. For this reason we highly recommend you do not disregard these warning signs and make an appointment to be seen at your earliest convenience.

Learn more about oral pathology at AAOMS