Mouth and Jaw Tumors and Cysts

Multiple types of tumors, both benign and malignant, can appear in the mouth and jaw. 

Tumors and cysts in the jaw often do not have symptoms. They are usually discovered during a routine X-ray. In some cases, however, swelling, bone pain, numbness, tenderness, and unexplained tooth mobility can be symptoms. Benign tumors and cysts can cause damage to surrounding bone and tissue.

Worrisome mouth ulcers, swellings and abnormally colored areas of the gums and lining tissues of the mouth may arise. Warning signs can include ulcers, white patches, mixed red and white patches, or red patches inside your mouth or on your lips.  These patches can often become malignant.

A biopsy is commonly necessary to determine if the tumor is malignant or benign.

Typically, benign tumors and cysts of the jaw will need to be surgically removed, and in some cases, bone reconstruction of the area may be necessary.
 

Treatment of malignant tumors is dependent on the location and type of the tumor. Often times, treatment can be successful with either surgery, chemotherapy, or a combination of the two.