Chapter 7 : Lesions of the Oral Cavity

Mucosal ulcers of less than 3 weeks' duration are usually identified. Lesional borders may be slightly raised, with a peripheral red halo. The center of the lesion is frequently filled with yellow to brown necrotic debris. The surface may be crusty, especially in the areas on the lips which are not continually bathed in saliva. The traumatic ulcer will often conform to the shape of the initiating agent (ie, broken tooth, broken prosthetic appliance, trauma from athletic injury, or trauma from an automobile accident). Occasionally a small amount of purulent material can be identified on the surface of the ulcer; mild lymphadenitis from contamination of the lesion by oral microorganisms may result.