The evaluation of oral lesions begins with a history and physical exam.

Physical findings in someone with oral lesions may include:

• Mouth or tongue bleeding
• Mouth or tongue lumps
• Mouth or tongue redness
• Mouth or tongue sores
• Mouth or tongue swelling
• Mouth or tongue tenderness
• Oral ulcer
• White coating on the tongue or inside the mouth
• White discoloration of the tongue or inside the mouth
• Dark spots on gums
• Swollen lymph glands in the neck

Tests that may be used to evaluate oral lesions include:

• Bacterial throat culture
• Viral culture
• HIV testing
• Biopsy of mouth lesion