Oral Pathology

Identify & Manage Oral Disease

If there is any abnormality to the normally smooth and coral pink lining of the mouth, pathology may be present that could indicate disease.

If a patient has a suspicious or abnormal condition in the mouth, it’s important to determine the cause because it could indicate a more serious problem, like oral cancer. Oral surgeons are extensively educated and trained in oral pathology, which focuses on diseases of the mouth, head, neck, and face. Oral pathologists examine and diagnose many oral conditions, including:

• Oral cancer
• Salivary problems
• Canker sores
• Fungal infections
• And bad breath

The best way to determine the nature of an irregularity in your mouth is to be seen for an evaluation. Oral surgeons receive training in the assessment and treatment of oral pathology, making the team at 7x7 Dental Implant & Oral Surgery Specialists highly qualified to give you the gentle and effective care you need.

Signs of Oral Cancer and Disease

There may not always be symptoms of pain or discomfort, making regular dental appointments and at-home examinations essential. It's recommended to perform a monthly oral exam to check for any changes or abnormalities. Start by standing in front of a mirror and opening your mouth wide. Look for any visible patches of discoloration, sores that do not heal, or thickening of the mouth lining. Pay attention to any difficulty with chewing or swallowing. If you notice any of these signs, it's important to consult an oral and maxillofacial surgeon, as they can indicate a benign or cancerous pathology.

Signs of a pathological process include:

• Visible patches of discoloration in the mouth
• Sores that do not heal within two weeks
• Thickening or lumps in the mouth linings
• Difficulty with chewing, swallowing, or speaking
• Persistent hoarseness or sore throat
• Numbness or pain in the mouth or lips
• Loose teeth or a change in bite
• Swollen or bleeding gums
• Persistent bad breath

If you notice any of these signs or symptoms, it is important to schedule a consultation with our oral surgeons. We offer oral cancer screenings and will discuss treatment options tailored to your specific needs.

Oral Pathology Treatment

Treatment options for oral pathology can vary depending on the nature of the condition. When you come to our office, one of our oral surgeons will perform a complete oral examination to look for signs of oral disease. 3D images may be taken at this time.

In some cases, a biopsy may be necessary to determine the next steps for treatment. Before the biopsy, you will be given a local anesthetic to numb the area where the biopsy will be performed. This ensures that you will not feel any pain during the procedure.

Once the area is numb, your oral surgeon will carefully remove a small sample of tissue from the affected area. This tissue sample will be sent to a laboratory for further analysis and diagnosis. The pathologist will provide a diagnosis based on their findings.

Once the pathology report is complete, your oral surgeon will discuss the results with you. Benign growths or infections can often be treated with oral medications, creams, or removal procedures. Common viral and fungal infections, such as herpes simplex type 1 (HSV-1) and candidiasis (thrush), can be effectively managed with the right treatment.

More severe cases, such as oral cancer, may require more extensive treatment, such as chemotherapy, radiation therapy, or surgeries, all of which will be discussed with you in detail.