Short Description
An abnormal change in oral tissue, such as a sore, ulcer, or growth, which may indicate infection, trauma, or underlying health conditions.
Long Description
A lesion in dentistry refers to any abnormal change or damage to oral tissue, including ulcers, sores, cuts, cysts, or growths. Lesions may appear on the gums, tongue, cheeks, lips, or inside the mouth and can range from harmless irritations to signs of serious conditions.
Common causes of oral lesions include trauma from biting, irritation from braces or dentures, infections (such as cold sores or canker sores), and underlying health conditions like oral cancer or autoimmune diseases. Lesions that persist for more than two weeks should be evaluated by a dentist to rule out serious concerns.
Treatment depends on the cause of the lesion. Minor lesions often heal on their own, while bacterial or fungal infections may require medication. If a lesion appears suspicious, a biopsy may be performed to determine its nature. Regular oral exams help in early detection and treatment of abnormal tissue changes.