Oral lesions

What are Oral Lesions?

Oral lesions are any abnormality which can occur in the mouth, including sores, swellings, discoloration, or other changes in the oral tissues. Oral lesions can occur on any of the soft tissues of the mouth, including the cheeks, lips, tongue, palate, throat, and gums.

Causes of Oral Lesions

Oral lesions can be caused by a variety of factors, such as smoking, infection, certain medications, and underlying medical conditions. Depending on the cause, oral lesions may be temporary or require medical treatment.

Types of Oral Lesions

Oral lesions can vary in size, appearance, and type depending on the cause:

• Mouth ulcers: Small, painful sores that can form in the inside of the mouth, typically around the cheeks, lips, or tongue.
• Canker sores: Painful ulcers that form on the mucosal lining of the mouth.
• Oral thrush: Whitish spots that can form inside the cheeks, on the gums, and on the tongue.
• Salivary gland lesions: Lesions that form in the salivary gland that are often painful and may require medical treatment.
• Oral tumors: Abnormal growths in the oral cavity that may need to be removed.
• Fibromas: Benign tumors that appear as nodules in the gum tissue.
• Leukoplakia: White or grayish patches that form in the cheek, gums, or tongue.
• Gingivitis: Inflammation of the gums that can lead to gum and tooth loss.
• Nicotinic stomatitis: Yellow patches that form in the mouth due to smoking or chewing tobacco.

Diagnosis and Treatment

If you have an oral lesion, it is important to visit your dentist to determine the cause and proper treatment. Generally, treatment for oral lesions may involve antibiotics, antivirals, medications to reduce inflammation, or surgery.