ORAL PATHOLOGY

ORAL PATHOLOGY

Oral pathology comprises the study, diagnosis, and treatment of oral diseases occurring in the teeth, gums, joints, bones, glands, and tissue of the mouth. Any condition that prevents you from comfortably smiling, speaking, biting, chewing, or swallowing requires prompt medical attention. An oral surgeon can treat these diseases by conducting a thorough examination, ordering lab testing, and developing a treatment plan unique to your specific healthcare needs.

Most Common Oral Pathologies

The most common forms of oral pathology issues in Birmingham, Alabama include:

  • There are a variety of benign (non-cancerous) lesions in the oral cavity. Some are simple “bumps” on the tongue, cheek, and lips that can grow larger with time. Some need to be removed before they enlarge to a more difficult removal process. Any unusual lesion in the mouth should certainly be evaluated.
  • oral cancer can be in the tissue of the mouth and throat, including the lips, cheeks, tongue, gums, the roof, and the floor of the mouth. Early detection and treatment is very important to avoid a potential life-threatening spread of cancer.
  • Oral Surgeons are considered experts in oral pathology. Many evaluations are simply nothing to worry about. It is better to check a questionable lesion than to ignore a potential problem that will get worse with time.

Signs and Symptoms of Oral Pathology issues:

Identifying oral pathology issues typically requires a visit to an experienced oral pathologist, but you can recognize certain signs and symptoms during a self-exam, such as:

  • Visible changes in the appearance or color of your face, lips, cheeks, tongue, palate, periodontal tissue, or neck
  • Unexplained pain, tingling, or numbness
  • Red or white lumps or patches
  • Ulcers or lesions that bleed and/or do not heal
  • Inflamed, sore, receding, or bleeding gums
  • Difficulty moving your tongue or jaw
  • Impaired ability to chew, swallow, or speak
  • Chronic sore throat and/or hoarse speech

Tips for Preventing Oral Pathology problems:

While you cannot predict oral pathologies, you can reduce your chances of developing them by following these tips:

  • Maintain proper oral hygiene by brushing your teeth twice daily and flossing once daily
  • Visit the dentist regularly, typically twice per year for a general screening
  • Eat a balanced diet high in nutritious foods, including fruit and vegetables
  • Limit consumption of sugary foods and drinks
  • Consume eight 8-ounce glasses of water daily
  • Cease tobacco use, including cigarettes, cigars, and snuff
  • Reduce consumption of alcohol. People who smoke and drink alcohol will have over a 50% increase in oral cancer
  • Receive a vaccination for HPV, one of the leading causes of oral cancer
  • Recognize that your oral health significantly impacts your overall health and vice versa

Oral Pathology in Birmingham, Alabama

If you experience any of the signs and symptoms of an oral pathology issue listed above, please contact Buck and Phillips Oral Surgery immediately. Our experienced Birmingham team provides patients with the highest quality of dental care. We offer a full range of services and work closely with you to make a diagnosis and develop a comprehensive, personalized treatment plan that covers all of your oral health needs. We also know that dental anxiety is experienced by many patients, so we are committed to doing everything possible to make your visit comfortable and pain-free. Learn more about our treatment options for oral pathology in Birmingham, AL by visiting our website to schedule an appointment with our oral and maxillofacial specialists.