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 for a pathological process. The most serious of these is oral cancer. The American Cancer Society reported over 38,000 cases of oral cancer in the United States in 2002. The five year survival rate for oral cancer is less than 60 percent, but the survival rate increases to over 80 percent for lesions that are diagnosed early.

The following are early signs that a pathologic process or growth may be present:

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

Factors that relate to development of oral cancer include:

It is important to note however that 25 percent of the people who develop cancer will have none of the risk factors.

We would recommend performing an oral cancer self-examination monthly and remember that your mouth is one of your body’s most important warning systems. Do not ignore suspicious lumps or sores.

In addition to clinical examination and incisional or excisional biopsy, we have incorporated the Vizilite exam into our practice for clinical evaluation of difficult or chronic cases.

There are many other types of oral pathology that may occur in the oral structures that will require diagnosis and treatment. Dr. Rabe is experienced in guiding you through the process of problem identification, evaluation of treatment options and getting appropriate treatment. Please contact us so we may help.

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