Dental tumors can be alarming, but it’s important to understand what they are and how they’re treated. A dental tumor is a mass of tissue that develops beneath the surface of the mouth, often in the jawbone or connective tissues. These growths can be either benign (non-cancerous) or malignant (cancerous), and their behavior can vary widely.
Some tumors grow slowly and remain contained, while others can be aggressive, infiltrating surrounding bone or soft tissue. While not all dental tumors are dangerous, they all warrant a closer look. Their location in the jaw or under the gums often means they go unnoticed until they become large enough to cause visible swelling, changes in bite alignment, or discomfort.
Because they originate deep beneath soft tissue, dental tumors are most effectively diagnosed through imaging such as panoramic X-rays, CBCT scans, or MRIs. When a growth is identified, a biopsy is usually the next step. This involves removing a small sample of the tissue, which is then analyzed in a pathology lab to determine its nature and whether further treatment is necessary.
Our office works closely with reputable pathology labs to ensure that every case is examined thoroughly and accurately. This partnership enables timely diagnoses and allows us to create appropriate treatment plans tailored to the specific condition—whether that involves monitoring the growth, surgical removal, or referral to a medical oncologist if malignancy is confirmed.
Oral cancer includes cancers of the lips, tongue, cheeks, floor of the mouth, hard and soft palate, sinuses, and throat. It can affect anyone, though certain risk factors—including tobacco use, heavy alcohol consumption, HPV infection, and a family history of cancer—can significantly increase the likelihood of developing it.
One of the greatest challenges in treating oral cancer is that it often progresses silently. In its early stages, it may not cause any pain or functional issues. Small sores, red or white patches, or subtle lumps might be overlooked or dismissed. Yet these are precisely the signs that deserve immediate attention. Left untreated, oral cancers can rapidly advance, spreading to other parts of the body and becoming life-threatening.
That’s why routine screenings are so critical. At Armitage Oral Surgery, we don’t just look—we examine, assess, and follow through. Every screening includes a visual and tactile examination of the lips, cheeks, tongue, throat, and jaw. When something doesn’t feel right, we take the next step—whether that’s further imaging, a referral, or a biopsy right in our office.
A biopsy may sound intimidating, but in reality, it’s a small, safe, and highly informative procedure that can offer the answers we need. When Dr. Katabi encounters a suspicious lesion or growth during a screening, a biopsy allows us to evaluate the tissue more closely and determine the exact diagnosis.
There are several types of biopsies used in oral pathology, depending on the location and size of the lesion. In some cases, a small section is removed (incisional biopsy); in others, the entire lesion may be taken out (excisional biopsy). The procedure is typically performed under local anesthesia, with minimal discomfort and little downtime.
Once the sample is collected, it’s sent to a pathology lab for microscopic evaluation. The resulting report helps us determine if the tissue is:
Based on the results, we’ll review your options and work with you to create a clear, supportive treatment plan.
Being proactive with your health doesn’t end at the dental office. We encourage all patients—especially those with risk factors—to regularly examine their mouths at home. A monthly self-check takes just a few minutes and can alert you to subtle changes that deserve a closer look.
You don’t need any special tools—just clean hands, a mirror, and good lighting. Gently examine all areas of your mouth, including the inner cheeks, tongue (top and bottom), gums, floor of the mouth, roof of the mouth, and lips. Look for anything that feels or appears unusual, including discoloration, lumps, ulcers, thickened tissue, or unexplained soreness.
If you notice something that doesn’t go away within two weeks, it’s time to schedule a professional evaluation. Many benign conditions can mimic the appearance of more serious issues—so even if the problem turns out to be minor, it's always better to know for sure.
While anyone can develop oral cancer, there are specific groups who should be especially vigilant. Patients over the age of 40, tobacco users (including smokeless tobacco), heavy alcohol drinkers, and those with prolonged sun exposure (in the case of lip cancer) all face an elevated risk.
The human papillomavirus (HPV), particularly strain HPV-16, has also emerged as a leading cause of oropharyngeal cancer in younger, otherwise healthy individuals. This makes regular screenings all the more critical—even for patients who don’t consider themselves high-risk.
We recommend oral cancer screenings at least once a year for all adults. If you’ve had a previous history of oral lesions, abnormal biopsies, or cancer, you may need to be monitored more frequently. During each screening, Dr. Katabi assesses for any changes compared to your prior visits, providing continuity of care and early detection if something does develop.
When an abnormality is found, the most important next step is creating a treatment plan that’s timely, thorough, and tailored to your needs. In some cases, this may involve close monitoring with re-evaluation in a few months. In others, surgical removal of a lesion or tumor may be the most appropriate course of action.
When oral cancer is diagnosed, early collaboration with oncology specialists ensures you receive multidisciplinary care from the start. Our office has established working relationships with local hospitals, oral surgeons, ENTs, and cancer care teams. We help guide patients through the transition from diagnosis to treatment, ensuring you’re never left navigating this process alone.
Facing the possibility of a serious diagnosis is never easy—but you don’t have to face it alone. At Armitage Oral Surgery, we’re not just here to perform procedures. We’re here to listen, to explain, and to walk with you through each stage of evaluation, diagnosis, and healing.
Our team provides detailed information, personalized follow-ups, and attentive care before, during, and after your procedure. We know that no two patients are alike—and we treat you accordingly, offering answers to your questions and reassurance when you need it most.
Your mouth can be a window into your overall health—and it’s one you don’t want to ignore. Whether it’s time for your annual screening or you’ve noticed something out of the ordinary, don’t wait. We’re here to help you take that first step toward clarity and peace of mind.
Contact Armitage Oral Surgery today to schedule your oral cancer screening or dental tumor evaluation with Dr. Katabi. Your health is our priority, and we’re honored to be part of your care team.
Yes. Routine screenings can identify early signs of oral cancer, such as lesions or tissue changes, which are more treatable when caught early. Early detection significantly improves survival rates; localized oral cancers have a 5-year survival rate of approximately 83%.
No. Currently, organizations like the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force state that there is insufficient evidence to recommend routine oral cancer screenings for asymptomatic adults. However, individuals with risk factors may benefit from screenings.
Yes, in high-risk populations. A meta-analysis found a 26% decrease in oral cancer mortality and a 19% decrease in advanced cases due to screenings in high-risk groups.
No. A biopsy is only performed if a suspicious lesion is detected during the screening. If no abnormalities are found, a biopsy is not required.
No. While self-examinations can help individuals notice changes, they are not a substitute for professional evaluations, which can detect subtle or asymptomatic issues.
Yes. Tobacco and alcohol use are significant risk factors for oral cancer. Individuals engaging in these habits should consider regular screenings.
No. The screening involves a visual and tactile examination of the mouth and is generally painless. If a biopsy is needed, local anesthesia is used to minimize discomfort.
Yes. Screenings can also identify other pathological conditions, such as benign tumors or precancerous lesions, allowing for early intervention.
Yes. Even without natural teeth, individuals can develop oral cancer in soft tissues and should have regular screenings.
Varies. Coverage depends on the insurance plan. Some plans cover screenings, especially for high-risk individuals, while others may not. It's advisable to check with your insurance provider.
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