Gums inside the mouth are normally smooth and light pink in color. Any change of appearance can indicate a pathological process; the most serious being oral cancer.
The following changes can indicate the beginning of a pathological or cancerous lesion:
- Red spots (erythroplakia) or white spots (leukoplakia) in the mouth.
- An ulcer that doesn’t heal after 2 to 3 weeks or bleeds easily.
- A lump, a mass or thickening of the gums.
- Sudden numbness of the lower lip.
- Difficulty chewing or swallowing.
- Chronic sore throat and hoarse voice for more than a few weeks.
The changes can be detected inside the cheeks, lips, roof of the mouth, gums, tongue or around the teeth. Some lumps may appear in your neck. These lesions are not always accompanied by pain. We recommend that you pay attention to changes that occur in your mouth and discuss them with your dentist. If necessary, you will be referred to our clinic for an assessment. A biopsy may be necessary to determine the nature of the lesion.
ORAL CANCER
Oral cancer represents 2 to 3% of all cancers worldwide. The main risk factors are smoking and alcohol. Early detection and quick management greatly improve prognosis. During your annual check-up, your dentist will proceed to a full examination of your mouth to ensure that no suspicious lesions have developed.
