When Should You See an Oral Surgeon for a Mouth Sore or Lump?

It’s easy to overlook a sore spot, lump, or patch in your mouth, especially if it isn’t painful. Often, these irritations go away on their own. But if you notice a change that keeps coming back or doesn’t heal, it’s a good idea to have an oral surgeon take a look. At Sunset Oral & Facial Surgery in West Hollywood, Dr. David Salehani can check for abnormal tissue changes and decide if any tests are needed.

When Is a Mouth Sore or Lump Worth Checking?

If you have a sore that hasn’t healed in two to three weeks, notice a red or white patch, find a new lump, feel thickened tissue, have ongoing mouth pain, numbness, jaw swelling, or trouble chewing or swallowing, you should get it checked. These symptoms don’t always mean cancer, but it’s important not to ignore them. The American Cancer Society lists some of these changes as possible warning signs of oral cavity and oropharyngeal cancer.

What Does Oral Pathology Include?

Oral pathology means there are abnormal changes or disease in the mouth, jaws, salivary glands, or nearby areas. This can include harmless growths, cysts, infections, inflammation, salivary gland issues, precancerous spots, or cancer. The American Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons says oral pathology covers oral cancer, but many conditions are not cancer. Seeing a professional helps find out what’s really going on.

What Happens During an Oral Pathology Evaluation?

Dr. David Salehani, DDS, MD, is a board-certified oral and maxillofacial surgeon. His training in dentistry, medicine, and surgery means he can evaluate unusual tissue in the mouth, jaws, and face. During your visit, he may look over your health history, check the area, and suggest imaging if the problem involves the jaw or deeper tissues.

Sunset Oral & Facial Surgery in West Hollywood offers oral pathology services for patients with sores, patches, lumps, or other tissue changes. If you need a biopsy, most can be done in the office with local anesthesia and then sent to an oral pathologist for diagnosis.

Do You Always Need a Biopsy?

No, not every mouth sore, lump, or patch needs a biopsy. Dr. Salehani may suggest monitoring, treating irritation or infection, imaging, or a biopsy, depending on what the area looks like, how long it’s been there, and your health history. For suspicious spots, the American Dental Association recommends a biopsy or seeing a specialist.

FAQ

Is every mouth lump cancer?

No. Many oral lesions are benign, but a new or persistent lump should be evaluated so you know what it is.

How long should I wait before having a mouth sore checked?

If a sore hasn’t healed in two to three weeks or keeps coming back, make an appointment to have it checked.

Does an oral biopsy hurt?

For in-office biopsies, local anesthesia is usually used. You might feel some pressure, but the area will be numbed first.

Schedule an Oral Pathology Evaluation in West Hollywood

If you have a mouth sore, lump, patch, or tissue change that is not healing, schedule an evaluation with Sunset Oral & Facial Surgery in West Hollywood. Dr. Salehani can examine the area, explain what may be causing it, and recommend the best course of action.