Oral Pathology – Vienna VA

Oral Cancer Screen Exam

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 could be a warning sign for a pathological process. The most serious of these is oral cancer. The following can be signs at the beginning of a pathologic 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.

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Christopher E. Bonacci, DDS, MD, PC

5 out of 5 stars based on 6 Oral Pathology reviews.

Our Latest Patient Testimonial

Dr. Bonacci and his staff made a intimidating procedure into a pleasant experience. They are very friendly and took great care of me.

- Tim B

5 out of 5 stars on

Our Latest Patient Testimonial

Everyone was very friendly, Staff and Dr. Bonacci provided very clear explanations and directions. Did not have to wait long to be seen. Very good, positive experience.

- Howard F

5 out of 5 stars on

Our Latest Patient Testimonial

Amazing experience. Went in with pain, left happy to have had by tooth extracted. For ten years I have never gotten completely numb with local anesthetic. Dr. Bonacci is skilled surgeon first and foremost and figured out how to rise to my numbing challenge and the result was a completely pain free experience. I feel very fortunate and grateful to have had such capable care.

- Joseph B.

5 out of 5 stars on

Our Latest Patient Testimonial

Great practice with great doctors, nurses, and support staff. I had a biopsy done on Friday after work and by the next night, Saturday my mouth didn't hurt any more and the stitches had come out. Was really quick and overall pretty painless procedure. Great experience all around.

- Andrew B

5 out of 5 stars on

Our Latest Patient Testimonial

Excellent experience and will recommend to family and friends.

- Manuel P

5 out of 5 stars on

Our Latest Patient Testimonial

Healed nicely and couldn't tell there had previously been an issue in my mouth.

- Robert S

5 out of 5 stars on