Oral Pathology

Your oral and maxillofacial surgeon is the expert for diagnosing and surgically treating cancer of the head, neck and mouth.  Your family dentist or oral surgeon is in the best position to detect oral cancer during your routine dental examinations.

The following signs are frequently associated with a pathologic process or cancerous growth

  • White patches of the oral tissues — leukoplakia
  • Red patches — erythroplakia
  • Red and white patches — erythroleukoplakia
  • A sore that fails to heal and bleeds easily
  • An abnormal lump or thickening of the tissues of the mouth
  • Chronic sore throat or hoarseness
  • Difficulty in chewing or swallowing
  • A mass or lump in the neck

A variety of cysts and tumors can develop within the jaw bones, and may or may not produce symptoms such as pain, swelling, or numbness.  Routine dental check-ups can detect early signs of pathology development on clinical and radiographic evaluation.  Your dentist will refer you to see an oral surgeon for further evaluation. 

Your mouth is one of your body’s most important early warning systems. Don’t ignore any suspicious lumps or sores. Should you discover something, make an appointment for a prompt examination. Early treatment may well be the key to complete recovery.

Dr. Rahn and Dr. Curiel are highly trained in the evaluation and treatment of such lesion and will make your experience less stressful.  Proper evaluation will include a clinical examination along with a 3D scan to evaluate the jaws completely.  

Office Phone: (559) 435-7993