Oral dermatology

Oral dermatology covers all diseases affecting the oral mucosa, i.e., the tissue liningthe inside of the oral cavity: the palate, the inside of the cheeks, and the tongue.

Constantly in contact with viruses, bacteria, and fungi, the oral cavity is exposed to a significant number of infections.

The appearance of a lesion on the oral mucosa is not necessarily a sign of malignancy, but certain symptoms should prompt a consultation with a specialist, such as an oral surgeon.

Lesions of the oral mucosa can cause functional or aesthetic discomfort for the patient. Unfortunately, many of them are still underdiagnosed and may become complicated.

A simple canker sore is an extremely common condition. This ulceration of the oral mucosa is usually round in shape, well defined, and yellow in color. It can be very painful. Often caused by intense stress, exhaustion, or contact with certain foods, a simple canker sore usually disappears after ten days. Your oral surgeon can prescribe treatment to relieve the pain.

A simple canker sore must be distinguished from a giant canker sore or an aphthoid ulceration (often secondary to medication or a systemic disease).

Ulcerations in the oral cavity can also result from a bacterial infection such as necrotizing ulcerative gingivitis.

Viral infections are also frequently found: herpes or shingles. Certain ulcerations can also be a warning sign of cancer. Biopsies can also be performed at the facility.

Among white lesions, candidiasis (or thrush) can be mentioned. The tongue, palate, and cheeks are covered with a whitish coating, which is a secondary condition resulting from a fungal infection. In cases of chronic candidiasis, the lesions, which often form plaques, can develop into cancer, hence the importance of early detection.

Pigmented lesions on the oral mucosa should raise suspicion of malignant melanoma and require a biopsy.

Due to their color, which is similar to that of the oral mucosa, erythematous lesions are sometimes difficult to recognize. They are often caused by gingivitis. At the Sana Oris dental clinic, dental surgeons who are experts in periodontics are on hand to detect and treat periodontal diseases in order to avoid complications, working in collaboration with oral surgeons.

Growths can form on the lips, floor of the mouth, or soft palate. They may be cancerous or non-cancerous (oral fibroma, commonwart, etc.). Among cysts, the most common is the subretentional mucous cyst (mucocele). While some cysts disappear spontaneously, surgery may be required in other cases.

Regular preventive appointments with your dentist ensure the good health of your entire oral cavity. In some cases, it will be possible to detect precancerous lesions and thus enable rapid treatment.

Smokers are particularly advised to seek regular medical advice and pay attention to symptoms such as difficulty swallowing or unusual pain in the mouth.

A clinical examination is essential for diagnosis. Sometimes, additional tests such as a biopsy are necessary. In every case, the first step is to consult a doctor.

At our clinics, our oral surgeons focus primarily on procedures such as wisdom tooth extraction, abscess treatment, cyst management, orthognathic surgery, benign tumor removal, and implant placement. As a result, we do not specifically treat cases of oral dermatology. For oral mucosal conditions requiring special attention, we recommend that you consult an oral dermatology specialist.