Oral pathology is the identification and treatment of lesions or diseases affecting the mouth. Oral pathology investigates the causes, effects, and processes of oral and maxillofacial diseases. While many oral lesions are not serious, the following alterations or lesions can be signs of a more aggressive pathologic process or cancerous growth.
What are signs of oral and maxillofacial diseases?
The inside of your mouth and gums should normally look smooth and coral pink in color. If you notice a change, it could be the early development of a pathological process. Most oral pathologies are benign, or not serious, but the most serious pathological disease is oral cancer. Some signs that could indicate the beginning of a pathologic process or cancer include
- White and red patches in the mouth
- Sores that bleed easily or fail to heal
- Thickening or a lump on your gums inside your mouth
- Difficulty swallowing or chewing
- A 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.
What are some of the conditions that we treat?
While many oral lesions are not serious, the following alterations or lesions can be signs of a more aggressive pathologic process or cancerous growth:
- Cysts and tumors of the jaw bones
- Benign and malignant salivary gland tumors and conditions
- Ulcerations in the oral cavity 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
Dr. Warren will perform a thorough history and physical exam with a focus on the area of concern. He will evaluate the area and likely recommend a biopsy of the lesion. A biopsy is a simple procedure that typically only requires the use of local anesthesia, which just numbs the specific biopsy site. The sample is sent to a pathologist who examines the tissue under a microscope to confirm a diagnosis. This will help your surgeon determine a diagnosis depending on the size and behavior of the lesion.
You can rest assured that Dr. Warren works with some of the finest oral pathologists in the world.
Oral and Maxillofacial Reconstruction
If you have undergone an ablative or resective procedure to test a benign or malignant lesion, you have numerous options for reconstruction. Dr. Warren’s extensive training has given him the experience to help patients restore oral function and enhance quality of life that was lost. His experience allows us to design a procedure specifically to your needs. This can include both bone and soft tissue reconstruction of various areas of the body. We can also work closely with your dentist or a maxillofacial prosthodontist to provide you with a functional dental rehabilitation. We also work closely with an anaplastologist to provide implant-supported nose, ear, and eye prosthetic reconstruction.
If you think you are experiencing a pathological process and want to receive an oral screening from a qualified specialist, please contact our office today. Dr. Scott Warren will meet with you, discuss your symptoms, and review your treatment options.