You wake up one morning and pull back your lip and see a growth. The first thought that goes through your mind is that dreaded “C” word – cancer. The good news is that 99% of these growths are benign. That’s not to say that one should ignore something that shouldn’t be there. When I see a lesion in someone’s mouth, the first question I ask is, “How long has it been there”. Many times, if it is fairly new, it may regress with time. I document it with a picture, then have the patient return in a couple of weeks. If the lesion is still there then it’s off to the oral surgeon for a biopsy. Not only is it better for peace of mind but also, if it turns out to be something serious, early detection will greatly increase the chance of survival. A biopsy is a very easy procedure that is done under local anesthetic and a couple of stitches.

Verrucous Carcinoma

If you ever have something growing where it’s not supposed to or a sore that doesn’t heal within a couple of weeks, then it is best to see your dentist as soon as reasonably possible. In the meantime, it is best not to lose any sleep over it since chances are greatly in your favor that it will not be anything serious.