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Oral Diseases

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 can be a warning sign for a disease process. The most serious of these is oral cancer. The following can be signs at the beginning of a disease process or cancerous growth:

• Reddish patches (erythroplasia) 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.

Pre operative Instructions for IV sedation or General Anesthesia

1. If you chose to have general anesthesia or intravenous sedation, do not have anything to eat or drink, including water, after Midnight the night before. If you take medications regularly, you should take them with small sips of water at the regular time. Also, any additional medications which might be prescribed to you by our office should be taken with small sips of water as directed.
2. Wear comfortable, loose fitting clothing with short sleeves or sleeves that can easily be rolled up above both elbows.
3. If you have general anesthesia or intravenous sedation, a responsible person must accompany you, remain in the reception area, and take you home.
4. Do not wear jewelry, including any facial piercings, makeup, including nail polish or eye cosmetics. Please tie long hair back.
5. If you wear contact lenses, please remove them prior to your appointment.
6. No smoking the morning of surgery.
7. Your mouth and teeth should be well cleansed to help avoid infection.
8. Do not ignore a head or chest cold when oral surgery is to be performed. Please call the office if you have any symptoms, as an appointment change may be necessary.

If you are going to have local anesthesia only, you may eat prior to your appointment and do not need somebody to accompany you to the office unless you are under 18.