Persistent oral lesions, especially those that are pigmented, ulcerated, or non-healing, require careful assessment and sometimes biopsy to rule out malignancy or dysplastic changes. Early intervention ensures accurate diagnosis and timely management.

Referral is advised when:

• A lesion persists for more than two weeks without clear cause.

• The lesion appears indurated, irregular, or has mixed red-white areas.

• Spontaneous bleeding, pain, or rapid changes in size are observed.

In an oral and maxillofacial surgery setting, biopsies are performed under local anaesthesia, ensuring precise sampling and proper handling for histopathology. Oral surgeons can provide guidance on further management if malignancy or pre-malignant changes are detected.

Referral ensures timely diagnosis, appropriate treatment, and reduces the risk of progression to advanced disease.

When to refer: Any suspicious oral lesion that cannot be confidently diagnosed or treated in general dental practice.