Discovering an odd spot in your mouth can be alarming. But don’t stress because our board-certified Las Vegas oral surgeons at Nevada OMS help patients understand and treat mouth lesions of all types. While many oral lesions are benign, it’s essential to know when to schedule your visit.

Common Types of Mouth Lesions

Canker sores are oval-shaped ulcers inside the mouth. The base of the ulcers is yellow or white, and they have a red border. They are painful and resolve spontaneously within two weeks. Recurrent or persistent canker sores may indicate underlying medical problems that must be assessed.

Cold sores, unlike canker sores, appear as liquid-filled blisters, typically on or around the lips. These infectious sores develop from the herpes simplex virus but can be treated properly with adequate medication and care.

When to See Nevada OMS

Any mouth sore that persists for more than two weeks should be brought in for expert attention. Be aware of these warning signs:

• Unexplained bleeding
• Changes in the color of mouth tissue
• Lumps or thick patches
• Chronic soreness
• Trouble swallowing
  

Our Diagnostic Process

We inspect the oral lesion meticulously at our Las Vegas location. Usually, we start with a thorough visual assessment and then may further evaluate with imaging studies, such as digital X-rays or 3D scans, when indicated. Occasionally, we will require a very small tissue sample, called a biopsy, to determine exactly what it is.

Treatment Methods

Treatment is dependent on the diagnosis. Many benign lesions resolve with simple treatments, including:

• Topical medications
• Special mouth rinses
• Dietary modifications
• Improved oral hygiene
  

For more severe conditions, our Las Vegas surgical team offers the following:

• Laser therapy
• Traditional extraction
• Reconstruction surgery

Full aftercare

Maintaining Oral Health

Most mouth sores can be prevented by maintaining good oral health. We suggest:

Everyday Care

Maintain good oral hygiene by brushing, flossing, and using alcohol-free mouthwashes regularly. A balanced diet also reduces many common oral disorders.

Avoid Irritants
Avoid irritants that can harm your mouth:

• Tobacco products
• Excessive alcohol
• Sharp edges foods
• Extremely hot or cold foods/liquids
  

The Nevada OMS Advantage

Our Las Vegas office is unique with:

• Experienced oral surgeons
• State-of-the-art diagnostic equipment
• All treatment options available
• Emergency time available
• Friendly, professional staff
  

Recovery Care

When your treatment is over, you will be given clear instructions on:

• Steps to follow at home
• Pain management
• Follow-up visits
• Emergency contacts
• What to eat and drink
  

Action

Don’t overlook mouth sores that won’t heal or changes in your oral tissue. The chances of successfully treating conditions are much greater if discovered early. Contact Nevada OMS today for an evaluation and to put your mind at ease. With locations in Las Vegas and Henderson, we are here to help you regain your health and confidence.