When you have a sore or lesion in the inside of your mouth, this is an oral pathology that needs an immediate exam and attention. Our team knows how to examine these and move forward with treatment to help your smile. In today’s blog, your Santa Rosa, CA, oral and maxillofacial surgeons talk about treating oral pathologies.
Common Oral Pathologies
Common examples of oral pathology include lesions, lumps, sores, and rough patches in the interior of your mouth. Other examples include areas with red and white splotches in the inside of your cheeks, your jaw, and salivary glands. When you have issues like these that arise and don’t heal after a week or two, this could be a sign of trouble, and a sign that you need to see our team.
Risk Factors
The warning signs above could indicate the potential presence of oral cancer, and you need to seek treatment because despite being treatable, oral cancer has a high mortality rate. This is often due to the fact that it is not caught in the early stages, so please see our team at the first sign of trouble. Risk factors for oral pathologies could include smoking and tobacco use, excessive UV exposure, and excess alcohol consumption.
Examination and Biopsy
Our team will conduct a detailed exam using digital x-rays and CBCT imaging, which provides high-definition images of the smile instantly chairside, all while using 90% less radiation. These images allow us to identify areas that are potentially cancerous or precancerous. If we find areas of concern, we may order a biopsy and take a small sample of the tissue, which can be sent to a lab for analysis. If these tests are positive, then we can discuss treatment with a specialist.
Preventive Actions
You can help lower your risk by wearing sun protection when outdoors, limiting your alcohol intake, and avoiding tobacco products. We also suggest you attend routine checkup and cleaning visits with your general dentist every six months, so they can screen for oral cancer and catch the issue in the earliest stages, and refer you to our team for a biopsy. If you have any questions about how we approach oral pathologies, or if you have an area of your mouth that concerns you, then contact our team right away. We want to help you enjoy good oral health and avoid major complications.
Talk to Us About Oral Pathologies
Our team is ready to examine your soft tissue concerns and offer relief, or refer you to a specialist as needed. When you are ready to schedule your oral pathology procedure with our office, feel free to contact Santa Rosa Oral Surgery in Santa Rosa, CA by calling (707) 545-4625.
