Oral Pathology/Oral Cancer
The inside of the mouth is normally lined with a special type of tissue (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 some of the 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 mucosa lining the inside of the mouth
- Chronic sore throat or hoarseness
- Difficulty in chewing or swallowing
- Lumps in the face or neck
These changes can be detected on the lips, cheeks, palate, gingiva (gum tissue around the teeth), tongue, face, and/or neck. Pain does not always occur with pathology and surprisingly, most oral cancers are painless. 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 or your dentist so we may help.
As Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons, our doctors are experts in the management of all types of pathologic conditions of the oral cavity. Many of these conditions can be treated in the office with simple excision or biopsy. More extensive conditions, such as oral cancer, require a detailed treatment plan, which may include surgical removal, reconstruction, radiation and chemotherapy.
Call us with any questions or to make an appointment.
Chicago: 773-736-3300 Mount Prospect: 847-255-7080 Bartlett: 630-289-5002 Elk Grove Village: 847-593-0535 Request AppointmentOral Pathology Reviews
Associates For Oral, Maxillofacial & Implant Surgery, LTD.
Patient Review
I have an extreme phobia regarding dentists. My hands were visibly shaking. The staff and the doctor were all extremely good at trying to calm my phobia. They made sure to tell me exactly what was going on and what to expect Dr. Sugar had a very light touch from what I could feel as he was giving me the Novacain injections. They gave both oral and written discharge instructions so that I can look at written instructions, knowing that I most likely was not in a position at the time to remember the discharge instructions. They were very good, calling the next day to make sure there were no problems and encouraging me to contact the office with any questions or concerns
- Toby S
Patient Review
A very friendly staff .
- daniel g
Patient Review
The extraction went super easily. The numbing injections were easily tolerated. The numbness wore off quickly. I had pain, but not overwhelming.
- Ann F
Patient Review
Dr Sugar did a fantastic job - would return if we need anything in the future
- Andrew S
Patient Review
Somewhat surprised that the cost was twice that of my dentist.
- Gerald P
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Very efficient and very friendly office. Glad my dentist, Dr. Edmond, recommended this office.
- Valorie G
Patient Review
Very courteous and efficient.
- Patricia C
Patient Review
Great staff great Doctor everyone explained what was needed to be done and answered all my questions
- Chris T
Patient Review
a nice professional visit
- David N
Patient Review
From the front desk staff to the surgery schedule to the assistants and most of all Dr Mark Spinazze you are given a pain free and the best quality of treatment. Treated like their own family. Confidence to have a better quality of life. God bless this practice!
- Janet B
Patient Review
Dr. Mark Spinazze and staff are great
- Daniella C
Patient Review
easy in. easy and fast visit
- Tom B
Patient Review
Procedure was very quick, which was good because I was anxious. The Doctor and support staff were efficient, attentive and answered all of my questions.
- Amy K
Patient Review
Great
- John M
Patient Review
It was a very quick and painless procedure, I had a molar removed. They answered all my questions and followed up the next morning!
- william s
Patient Review
Staff, Doctor and everyone was wonderful. I learned about implants so I have knowledge I didn't have before. I would never go anywhere else!
- Stephanie B
Patient Review
Doctor and staff were very professional. Doctor was very good at explaining procedure and needed follow up.
- Mary M
Patient Review
my first and only choice
- john r
Patient Review
Caring, warm, knowledgeable, thorough and made me feel very comfortable! Thank you so much for putting me at ease!
- Joan S
Patient Review
Wonderful experience. Mark was courteous, informative, explained every step of the procedures which eliminated any anxiety AND no pain.
- Mike W