Oral surgeons receive extensive training in the diagnosis and treatment of both benign and malignant conditions that occur in the oral cavity and head and neck region.

What is Oral Pathology?

Oral and maxillofacial pathology is the specialty which deals with the identification, nature, and management of diseases affecting your mouth. Oral pathology investigates the causes, effects and processes of oral and maxillofacial diseases.

What are some of the common conditions that we treat?

• Benign cysts and tumors of the jawbones
• Benign Salivary Gland Tumors and Conditions
• Non healing ulcerations in the oral cavity
• Medication Related Osteonecrosis of the Jaw (MRONJ)
• Red and White lesions of the oral cavity ( Leukoplakia and Erythroplakia)

What happens if my doctor or dentist sends me to you for an evaluation?

We will perform a thorough history and physical exam with a focus on the area of concern. They will evaluate the area and likely recommend a biopsy of the lesion. This biopsy may consist of removal of the entire lesion, or they may choose to take only a small part of the lesion to obtain a diagnosis depending on the size and behavior of the lesion. We will then send the specimen to a local laboratory for evaluation and diagnosis.

What are Signs of Oral and Maxillofacial Diseases?

Your gums should normally look smooth and coral pink in color. If you notice a change in this appearance, it could be an early development of a pathological process. The most serious pathological disease is oral cancer. Here are some signs that could indicate the beginning of a pathologic process or cancer:

• White and Red patches in the mouth
• Sore(s) that bleed easily or fails to heal
• Thickening or a lump on your gums inside your mouth
• Difficulty swallowing or chewing
• Constant sore throat or rasping

You can notice these changes on your cheeks, lips, face, neck, tongue, palate, and gum tissue around your teeth. You may not experience pain with these signs.

Should I Check for Oral Pathologies?

You should check your mouth monthly and look for changes like the ones listed above. You should never ignore suspicious sores or lumps. Contact us immediately if you notice changes in and around your mouth.