Mouth lesions
An ulcer, white or red patch, lump or persistent discomfort warrants clinical assessment.
An ulcer, white or red patch, lump, burning sensation, dryness or persistent discomfort may have traumatic, inflammatory, infectious, medication-related or, less commonly, neoplastic causes. Appearance alone may not establish a diagnosis.
The whole mouth is examined and local causes are considered. Duration, recurrence, medication, tobacco, medical history and lesions affecting the skin or other mucosa help guide assessment.
Photographs can help document change over time. Depending on the findings, a swab, biopsy or blood tests may be proposed. A biopsy analyses a small tissue sample and does not by itself indicate severity.
Treatment depends on the identified cause and may involve removing an irritant, local care, medication, surgery or referral to a specialist team. Follow-up may remain important even after symptoms improve.
Bring prescriptions, a medication list, relevant reports and, if available, dated photographs showing the lesion’s evolution. Mention any recent change in medication or dental appliance.
A mouth sore that does not heal, a lesion that grows or bleeds, a neck lump, numbness, difficulty swallowing or a decline in general health should be assessed without unnecessary delay.
The French national health insurance website outlines oral warning signs that warrant medical or dental assessment. Read the ameli.fr guidance in French
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