Oral Cancer

A healthy mouth is lined with smooth skin (mucosa) that is coral pink in color. Any changes in appearance could be a warning sign for a pathological process. The most serious of these is oral cancer.

Warning Signs for the Beginning of a Pathologic Process or Cancerous Growth:

• White or red patches in the mouth or on your gums
• A sore that will not heal and bleeds easily
• A lump or thickening of the skin inside of the mouth or on your lips
• Bleeding, pain or numbness in your mouth
• Chronic sore throat or hoarseness
• Difficulty in chewing or swallowing

These signs can be identified on the tongue, cheeks, lips, palate and gum tissue around the teeth, face and/or neck. These warning signs may or may not be accompanied with pain. In fact, pain is not often associated with oral cancer. However, if you have facial and/or oral pain without an obvious cause or reason, you may also be at risk for oral cancer.

At Southwest Oral & Implant Surgery, Dr. Eklund recommends performing a monthly oral cancer self-examination. With a mirror, examine the inside your mouth, including the roof, lips, cheeks, gums and under your tongue. Look for any of the warning signs listed above.  Even if the spot is painless, consult with Dr. Eklund promptly if it doesn't go away within a week or two.

Your mouth is a warning system for your entire body. Never ignore suspicious lumps or sores. Early detection is key. Call Southwest Oral & Implant Surgery for an examination.

Contact Us

If you are a dentist or a physician who is interested in referring your patients to Dr. Eklund, visit the Referring Doctors section for more information. If you are a patient who would like to schedule an appointment, visit the Contact Us section for hours, phone numbers, and e-mail addresses.