Oral melanoma

Melanoma develops from pigment-producing cells. In the mouth it may appear on the palate, gums, cheek lining, or tongue as a brown, black, grey, or unevenly coloured area. It can also present as a lump, ulcer, bleeding spot, or a change that does not heal. Many mouth marks are not melanoma, but appearance cannot settle the diagnosis. A dentist, doctor, or specialist may inspect the lesion and nearby lymph nodes and arrange a biopsy.

Arrange prompt assessment rather than trying to remove, bleach, or repeatedly irritate the area. Bring details about when it appeared, whether its colour or shape changed, bleeding, pain, loose teeth, and any tobacco use or dental trauma. If testing confirms melanoma, the team may discuss surgical removal, assessment of nearby lymph nodes, and other treatment such as immunotherapy. The plan depends on the lesion, biopsy findings, and whether disease has spread.

Contact a dentist or doctor promptly for a new dark mouth patch, a changing mark, a persistent ulcer, unexplained bleeding, a growing lump, numbness, loose teeth, or difficulty chewing and swallowing. Seek urgent help for heavy bleeding, rapidly increasing swelling, or breathing difficulty. Do not wait for pain: melanoma and other serious mouth conditions may not hurt early.

Ask whether the lesion needs urgent biopsy, what the examination can show, and which specialist will coordinate care. If melanoma is confirmed, ask about surgical margins, lymph-node assessment, staging, treatment choices, side effects, and the schedule for follow-up examinations.