Oral Pathology

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 pathological 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 and/or 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. 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 can assist you with any questions or concerns. 

Prairie Path Oral Surgery

5 out of 5 stars based on 20 reviews

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Amazing Doctor. Don’t change, don’t retire!

- Linda R

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- Arthur S

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I’ve already recommended Dr. Erickson to many of my friends. It’s not fun having oral surgery, but he & his staff make you very comfortable!!

- Marsha P

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- Michael S

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- Patrice J

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I couldn't ask for a better dental experience!

- Joy K

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- Karla B

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Very satisfied with overall procedure

- David R

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Highly recommended

- mark u

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- Carol M

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- Jodi S

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The staff and Dr Erickson were absolutely phenomenal. We had to get in quickly to get some impacted wisdom teeth extracted and ended up with some issues that required more anesthesiology help. The staff was more than willing and gracious with their time in helping us negotiate how to get all this done through insurance and the anesthesiologist. They were able to fit us in and Dr Erickson was very very conscientious and kind. I just can't recommend this practice enough!

- Susan S

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Highly recommend

- CREE S

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- Bill P

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Overall I had a great experience at Dr. Erickson's office

- Logan K

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- Noah S

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My son had all 4 wisdom teeth removed. Dr. Erickson and all of his staff were knowledgeable and friendly. My son's recuperation went smoothly. No surprises! I would definitely recommend this oral surgeon.

- Angela C

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Grateful that my regular dentist referred me to Dr. Erickson.

- Debra H

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EVERYONE working in the office is wonderful! I would absolutely recommend them to any and everyone! Thank you so much for all that you do!

- Nicole F

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Fantastic service in an incredibly quick timeframe, and I walked away with no pain and no complaints! Would definitely recommend for anyone who needs their wisdom teeth removed!

- Ian M

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