Oral Pathology - Naperville, IL

The inside of a normal mouth is lined with mucosa, which is a special type of skin that should be pink and smooth. If a change in color or texture occurs, then it could be a warning sign for a pathological concern, such as oral cancer and other diseases. Drs. Blecha and Jandali provide patients in Naperville thorough treatment plans based on the needs of each patient. During your oral pathology consultation, your doctor will discuss specific details, such as possible surgical risks or sensory nerve damage.

Signs You Might Need Pathology Treatment

Regular exams with a general dentist are important for detecting potential pathology issues in the early stages. Additionally, you should watch for potential signs that might indicate the need to talk to a doctor about your oral health. Symptoms include:

• Whitish patches (leukoplakia) in the mouth
• Reddish patches (erythroplakia) in the mouth
• Mouth sores that bleed easily
• Mouth sores that don’t heal within 3–4 weeks
• Thickening skin on the inside lining of the mouth
• A lump in the skin or mouth lining
• Chronic hoarseness or sore throat
• Difficulty swallowing or chewing

These changes can occur on the gum tissue, cheeks, palate, lips, tongue, face, and/or neck. Conditions can also affect the teeth and jawbones. Pathology doesn’t necessarily mean that you will experience pain. In fact, pain is not often associated with oral cancer. If you experience pain in the oral or facial regions, then it could potentially be a symptom of a disease.

Talk to a Doctor for Diagnosis

In most cases, the conditions are not cancerous. Just because you notice any of the symptoms above, don’t fear that you have cancer. Instead, it is recommended to seek an evaluation with your dentist for examination and diagnosis.

Regular dental exams are key to early diagnosis. As a result, treatment can be done in the early stages before the disease progresses. Drs. Blecha and Jandali treat many types of pathology in the mouth and jaw.