PROCEDURES | oral pathology in VT


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 (erythroplakia) 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. Please contact us so we may help. As oral and maxillofacial surgeons, the doctors of Northern Vermont Oral Surgery have extensive training and experience in diagnosing, treating and reconstructing areas of oral disease. With a background in dentistry, returning the oral cavity to cosmetic and functional reconstruction is a primary and attainable goal.




The doctors at Northern Vermont Oral Surgery practice a full scope of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery with expertise ranging from Cosmetic Facial Surgery to Corrective Jaw Surgery and Wisdom Tooth Removal. They can also diagnose and treat Facial Pain, Facial Injuries, Sleep Apnea, and TMJ disorders, and perform a full range of Dental Implant and Bone Grafting procedures. They have offices in Essex Jct, Berlin and St. Albans, VT

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