A variety of conditions can affect the lining of the mouth or skin of the face and neck. Any abnormalities should be brought to the attention of your dentist or an Oral & Maxillofacial Surgeon. Dr. Ferdowsmakan has experience in diagnosing and treating pathological conditions which affect the head and neck region including cancer.

An oral cancer screening may be performed by your dentist or by Dr. Ferdowsmakan to ensure that any suspicious growths are evaluated and treated. Lesions which are suspicious or which have failed to heal in a timely fashion should be biopsied to acquire a diagnosis and/or treat the condition. Biopsies are typically minor procedures and often can be performed with local anesthesia in our surgical suite at Torrey Hills Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery.

The following can be signs of a pathologic process or cancerous growth:

• Reddish patches (erythroplakia) or whitish patches (leukoplakia) in the mouth
• A sore or ulcer that fails to heal and bleeds easily
• A lump or thickening of the lining inside 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 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. Smoking and the use of smokeless tobacco can significantly increase the risk for oral cancer.