It is a good idea to be familiar with the normal look and feel of your mouth so that any changes can be reported to your oral surgeon promptly. While many changes that may occur inside the mouth are not serious, they do need to be examined in a timely manner. Oral pathology helps to identify and treat any abnormality that has occurred in your mouth and gums. It also considers the causes, effects, and processes of oral and maxillofacial diseases.
Signs of Oral and Maxillofacial Diseases
Although most oral pathologies are benign, which means not harmful, oral cancer is the most severe pathological disease. Any changes within the mouth can indicate a pathological process.
If you notice any of the following changes to your cheeks, lips, neck, tongue, palate, or gums, please contact our office for further examination:
- White and red patches in the mouth
- Lump or thickening of the gum tissue
- Difficulty chewing or swallowing
- A persistent sore throat
- Rasping throat
- Sores inside the mouth that bleed easily or fail to heal
Pain is not necessarily experienced with these symptoms. If you have noticed any changes, please contact our office so that we can see you as soon as possible.
During your appointment, your oral surgeon will evaluate the area of concern and review your medical history. A biopsy may be taken of the lesion. Most of the time, a biopsy is a quick procedure that allows your oral surgeon to gather a sample of the lesion to send to a pathologist for further diagnosis. Local anesthesia is often used during a biopsy procedure. The findings from the pathologist will determine how your oral surgeon will proceed with treatment.
Several oral conditions and diseases are effectively treated at North Sound Oral & Facial Surgery, including
- Cysts and tumors of the jaw bones
- Sores in the mouth that won’t heal
- Bisphosphonate-Related Osteonecrosis of the Jaw (BRONJ)
- Red and white lesions of the oral cavity (Leukoplakia and Erythroplakia)
- Skin cancer or melanoma
Oral Pathology at North Sound Oral & Facial Surgery
Knowing how your mouth normally looks and feels is helpful in the early identification and prompt treatment of any abnormality. If you have noticed any changes, please contact our office. Dr. Brar will provide an oral screen and recommendations for further treatment.