There are many non-cancerous and cancerous conditions in the mouth and facial region that include cysts and tumors as well as severe infections of the oral cavity, salivary glands, jaws and neck. Our surgeons are uniquely qualified to treat any of these conditions. We recommend that you have any lumps, sores or unusual conditions checked as a precaution.

The inside of the mouth is normally lined with a special type of skin that is smooth and coral pink in color. Any alteration in this appearance could be a warning sign of a possible problem, the most serious being oral cancer.

What to look for

We recommend performing an oral cancer self-examination monthly, checking your mouth for suspicious lumps and sores. Remember that your mouth is one of your body's most important warning systems.

• Reddish patches or whitish patches in the mouth
• A sore that fails to heal and bleeds easily
• A lump or thickening of the skin lining inside the mouth
• Chronic sore throat or hoarseness
• Difficulty in chewing or swallowing

These changes may be detected on the lips, cheeks, palate, gum tissue around the teeth, tongue, face, and/or neck. Pain does not always occur 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.