Oral Pathology and Oral Cancer Screening in Mission Viejo
Oral pathology is the diagnosis of diseases of the mouth and jaws, including sores, lumps, white or red patches, and oral cancer. Dr. Arthur Johnson, a board-certified oral and maxillofacial surgeon, examines and biopsies suspicious areas at our Mission Viejo office for patients from Laguna Hills, Laguna Niguel, and across Orange County.
The inside of the mouth is normally lined with smooth, pink tissue called mucosa. Because changes in that lining are easy to see, many problems can be found early, including oral cancer. Most changes turn out to be harmless, but the only way to know is to have them examined.
Dentists often spot a suspicious area during a routine exam and refer the patient to an oral surgeon. You can also book a consultation directly if you notice something that does not go away.
What happens at an oral pathology exam
Dr. Johnson reviews your health history, asks how long the area has been there, and examines your lips, mouth, tongue, throat, and neck. Some areas only need to be watched and rechecked in a few weeks.
If an area needs a closer look, he removes a small sample of tissue, called a biopsy, usually with local anesthesia in the office. The sample goes to a pathology lab, and the office contacts you to review the results and the next steps.
Who should be screened regularly
People who smoke, use smokeless tobacco, or drink alcohol heavily have a higher risk of oral cancer. HPV infection is also linked to some cancers at the back of the throat. If any of these apply to you, ask your dentist to check your mouth at every visit, and see an oral surgeon about any area that does not heal.
How to check your own mouth
Once a month, look in a mirror with good light. Check your lips, gums, the inside of your cheeks, the roof and floor of your mouth, and the top, sides, and underside of your tongue. Feel your neck and the area under your jaw for lumps. If you find something that lasts longer than two weeks, call us.
Cost and insurance
The cost depends on the exam and whether a biopsy is needed. You receive a written estimate before any procedure. Our Mission Viejo office accepts many PPO dental plans and Denti-Cal. We do not accept HMO plans.
Signs to have checked by an oral surgeon
- A red or white patch inside the mouth
- A sore that has not healed in two weeks or bleeds easily
- A lump or thickening of the tissue
- Numbness in the tongue, lip, or chin
- A chronic sore throat or hoarseness
- Difficulty chewing or swallowing
Frequently Asked Questions
When should I worry about a sore in my mouth?
Most mouth sores heal on their own within one to two weeks. A sore, patch, or lump that lasts longer than two weeks, bleeds easily, or keeps coming back in the same spot should be examined.
Does an oral biopsy hurt?
The area is numbed first, so most patients feel pressure rather than pain. Afterward the site may be sore for a few days, much like a small cut inside the mouth.
Does a biopsy mean I have cancer?
No. A biopsy is how a diagnosis is made, and most areas that are biopsied are not cancer. It gives you and your dentist a clear answer instead of a guess.
Do I need a referral for an oral cancer screening?
No. You can book a consultation directly. Many patients are also referred by their dentist after a routine exam.
Is there an oral surgeon near me for oral cancer screening?
If you live in south Orange County, yes. Our office is at 25982 Pala Ste 120, Mission Viejo, CA 92691, close to Laguna Hills, Laguna Niguel, Lake Forest, and Rancho Santa Margarita. Call (949) 347-9990 to book a consultation.