Treaments and Services
- Treatment Methods
- Prophylaxis (Teeth Cleaning)
- Bruxism Treatments
- Scaling and Root Planning
- Bite Adjustment
- Osseous Surgery
- Gum Grafting
- Frenectomy
- Crown Lengthening
- Bone Grafting
- Guided Bone and Tissue Regeneration
- Sinus Augmentation
- Cosmetic Periodontal Surgery
- Oral Cancer Exam
- TMJ Dysfunction
- Tooth Extraction
- Microbial Testing
- Local Antibiotic Treatment
- Periodontal Maintenance & Support Therapy
- Dental Implants
Oral Pathology & Oral Cancer Screening
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 in 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.
The oral cancer screening examination is completely painless. Dr. Rubino will look for abnormalities inside the mouth and feel the face, glands, and neck for unusual bumps. Some of the signs that will be investigated are red patches and sores. Leukoplakia is a hardened white or gray, slightly raised lesion that can appear inside the mouth, and may be cancerous. Signs of these will be examined as well.
If lesions, lumps, or abnormalities are apparent, Dr. Rubino will implement a treatment plan that is right for you. Suspicious areas may be considered for biopsy and when appropriate, a referral to the appropriate professional will be recommended.
It is also important to note that over 75% of oral cancers are linked with avoidable behaviors such as smoking, tobacco use, and excessive alcohol consumption. Dr. Rubino can provide you with literature and recommendations about quitting dangerous behaviors such as tobacco use.
