Oral pathology is a dental discipline that investigates the causes, processes, and effects of diseases affecting the mouth and jaw areas. It seeks not only to diagnose, but also to manage these diseases. The inside of the mouth is normally lined with a special type of skin that is smooth and pink in color. Any alteration in this appearance could be a warning sign for a pathological process, the most serious of these being oral cancer. If you suspect you may be at risk to oral disease, our doctors at FDIOS are equipped to help you.
Who can benefit from Oral Pathology?
You may benefit from oral pathology if you are experiencing any of the following symptoms:
A sore that bleeds and isn't healing
Persistent sore throat or hoarseness
Difficulty chewing or swallowing
These symptoms can be detected on the lips, cheeks, palate, and gum tissue around the teeth, tongue, face and/or neck. Pain doesn’t always occur and is not often associated with oral cancer. However, anyone experiencing facial or oral pain without an obvious cause may be at risk for oral cancer. We would recommend performing an oral cancer self-examination monthly. Your mouth is one of your body’s most important warning systems and lumps or sores should not be ignored.
During your appointment, our doctors will check your mouth for symptoms of disease. If a biopsy is warranted, they will numb the oral area in question, remove a sample of tissue, and submit it to a lab for diagnosis.
You can expect to receive your diagnostic results within one week.
If treatment is required, our office will refer you to a doctor who specializes in addressing your oral condition.
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