Our surgeons are able to diagnose and surgically treat cancer of the head, neck and mouth. Oral cancers are often found late in the development. You should have an oral cancer screening during your routine dental examinations. The following can be signs of the beginning of a pathological process or cancerous growth.

Look for the following:

• White patches of the oral tissues — leukoplakia
• Red patches — erythroplakia
• Red and white patches — erythroleukoplakia
• A sore that fails to heal and bleeds easily
• An abnormal lump or thickening of the tissues of the mouth
• Chronic sore throat or hoarseness
• Difficulty in chewing or swallowing
• A mass or lump in the neck

You should also perform a monthly self-exam and do not ignore suspicious lumps or sores. If you or your dentist discover something suspicious, make an appointment with an oral surgeon right away. Your mouth is one of the body’s most important warning systems.