Oral Surgery - Oral pathology
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 following can be signs at the beginning of a pathologic process or cancerous growth:
- Reddish patches (erythroplasia) or whitish patches (leukoplakia) in the mouth
- A sore that fails to heal and bleeds easily
- A lump or thickening on the skin lining the inside of the mouth
- Chronic sore throat or hoarseness
- Difficulty chewing or swallowing
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.
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.
We evaluate every oral and facial lesion microscopically. We treat most cases to completion in our office. When necessary, we refer certain cases to other doctors for additional care. Please contact us so that we may help.
Our Practice, Our Promise:
As Chicago oral and cosmetic surgeons, our Lincoln Park Dental practice provides dental implant services, cosmetic surgery, plastic surgery, tooth extractions, facial trauma surgery, medi-spa treatments, and more to Chicago and the surrounding suburbs.
Chicago Facial Plastic Surgeon
Marvin Greene, D.D.S.
Dr. David H. Hanson, M.D., D.D.S.
Contact Information
2449 N. Lincoln Ave.
Chicago, IL 60614
Phone: (773) 327-2400
Fax: (773) 327-4759
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