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Oral lesions can be painful and uncomfortable and sometimes signify underlying health conditions. They may appear as ulcers, white or red patches, blisters, or lumps in the mouth. While some oral lesions are harmless and heal on their own, others may require medical attention to prevent complications. Seeking professional management of oral lesions in Hattiesburg, MS, and Laurel, MS, can help in early diagnosis and effective treatment.

Contact us, and we will assess the lesion, identify its cause, and recommend appropriate treatment options. Early intervention is key to maintaining oral health if you have persistent oral sores or unusual changes in your mouth.

Types of Oral Lesions

Oral lesions can be classified based on their appearance, cause, and potential risks. The most common types include:

Canker Sores (Aphthous Ulcers)

• Small, painful ulcers with a white or yellow center and a red border
• Often triggered by stress, trauma, or certain foods
• Usually, heals within one to two weeks

Cold Sores (Herpes Simplex Virus - HSV)

• Fluid-filled blisters that form around the lips or inside the mouth
• Caused by the herpes simplex virus (HSV-1)
• Contagious and may recur due to stress, illness, or sun exposure

Leukoplakia

• White or gray patches on the tongue, cheeks, or gums
• Often linked to smoking, tobacco use, or irritation from dentures
• It may require a biopsy to rule out precancerous changes

Lichen Planus

• Chronic inflammatory condition causing white, lace-like patches in the mouth
• It can be associated with autoimmune disorders
• May cause pain, burning, or sensitivity to spicy foods

Candidiasis (Oral Thrush)

• A fungal infection causing white, creamy patches on the tongue and inner cheeks
• More common in people with weakened immune systems, diabetes, or those using corticosteroids
• Often treated with antifungal medications

Oral Cancer

• Red or white patches, lumps, or sores that do not heal within two weeks
• It may cause difficulty swallowing, pain, or numbness
• Early detection through regular check-ups with a dentist in Hattiesburg, MS, and Laurel, MS, is crucial for effective treatment

Causes of Oral Lesions

Oral lesions can result from various factors, including:

✔ Infections: Bacterial, viral, or fungal infections can lead to sores and ulcers.

✔ Trauma: Biting the cheek, ill-fitting dentures, or rough teeth can cause lesions.

✔ Nutritional Deficiencies: Lack of iron, vitamin B12, or folic acid can contribute to sores.

✔ Autoimmune Conditions: Diseases like lupus or pemphigus vulgaris can cause chronic oral lesions.

✔ Allergic Reactions: Some individuals develop mouth sores from certain foods, medications, or dental products.

✔ Tobacco and Alcohol Use: Both can irritate the oral tissues and increase the risk of leukoplakia and oral cancer.

Diagnosis of Oral Lesions

A thorough examination by a dentist is essential for diagnosing and managing oral lesions. Diagnosis may include:

✔ Visual Examination: The dentist inspects the lesion’s size, shape, color, and location.

✔ Medical History Review: Understanding past health conditions, medications, and lifestyle habits.

✔ Biopsy: If the lesion appears suspicious, a small tissue sample may be taken for further analysis.

✔ Blood Tests: Check for infections, nutritional deficiencies, or autoimmune disorders.

Treatment and Management of Oral Lesions

The management of oral lesions in Hattiesburg, MS, and Laurel, MS, depends on the type and cause of the lesion. Treatment may include:

Medications

• Topical Ointments: Steroid gels or anesthetic creams to reduce pain and inflammation
• Antiviral Drugs: For managing herpes simplex virus-related cold sores
• Antifungal Medications: Used for treating oral thrush
• Antibiotics: If bacterial infections are present

Lifestyle and Dietary Changes

• Avoid spicy, acidic, or rough foods that may aggravate mouth sores.
• Maintain good oral hygiene to prevent infections.
• Reduce stress, which can trigger canker sores or cold sore outbreaks.

Professional Dental Care

• Laser Therapy: Some oral lesions can be treated with laser therapy for faster healing.
• Surgical Removal: Necessary for persistent lesions or those suspected of being cancerous.
• Adjusting Dental Appliances: If dentures or braces are irritating, adjustments may be needed.

Preventive Measures

• Regular dental check-ups to detect and manage oral lesions early.
• Quitting smoking and reducing alcohol consumption to lower the risk of oral cancer.
• Using lip balms with SPF to prevent sun-induced cold sores.

When to See a Dentist for Oral Lesions

It is essential to seek professional care if you experience:

✔ Lesions that do not heal within two weeks

✔ Painful or recurring sores

✔ White or red patches in the mouth

✔ difficulty chewing, swallowing, or speaking

✔ Unexplained bleeding or lumps in the mouth

Early detection and proper management of oral lesions in Hattiesburg, MS, and Laurel, MS, can prevent complications and improve oral health outcomes.

Why Choose a Professional Dentist for Oral Lesion Management?

A skilled dentist offers:

✔ Expertise in diagnosing and treating various types of oral lesions

✔ Access to advanced diagnostic tools and treatment options

✔ Personalized care plans tailored to each patient’s needs

✔ Preventive strategies to reduce the risk of recurrence

Conclusion

Oral lesions can affect your comfort, ability to eat and speak, and overall oral health. Seeking expert management of oral lesions is essential for proper diagnosis and treatment. A dedicated dentist in Hattiesburg, MS, and Laurel, MS, can help identify the cause of your oral lesions and recommend the best treatment approach.

If you have persistent oral sores, unusual patches, or concerns about oral health, schedule an appointment today. Early intervention ensures better outcomes and helps maintain a healthy, pain-free smile!

To schedule an appointment with us, visit The Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery Center, P.A., 6284 US Highway 98, Hattiesburg, MS 39402, or 325 South 13th Avenue, Laurel, MS 39440. Call (601) 271-2356 or (601) 425-2356 for bookings and consultations. Please visit our official website to learn more about the wide array of services we provide.