An oral pathology could include any sores or lesions that form in your smile but do not heal after several days. These should be examined by professionals, and may require you to be referred to a specialist. In today’s blog, your Santa Rosa , CA, oral and maxillofacial surgeons talk about our approach to treating oral pathologies.
Common Pathologies
Examples include sores or lesions and ulcers in your mouth that don’t heal after two weeks. Others could include swelling, lumps, rough patches, cysts, tumors, or areas of red and white splotches that don’t heal after several days. Many don’t cause discomfort, and most are benign. But the risk of oral cancer is always there, so we want to take a close look at them and if necessary, conduct a biopsy and see if you need treatment.
When to See Our Team
These can develop inside the mouth, jaw, and salivary glands. Oral pathology is simply the umbrella term for these sores and lesions. A proper evaluation and assessment is very important for the state of your oral health. After all, despite having recovery odds of 80% when diagnosed early, oral cancer still claims half of those diagnosed within five years. This is because people rarely have it diagnosed early. Which is why if you notice changes like we discussed above, you should see us right away. We can also work with your general dentist or orthodontist if you’re being referred to us.
Biopsies and Treatments
We begin with a thorough exam and evaluation of your smile, which we conduct with detailed digital x-rays and advanced CBCT imaging. These allow us to obtain high-quality images of the smile, and the chance to diagnose possibly cancerous and precancerous areas in the early stages. We also conduct a full review of your health and dental history. A small tissue sample could be taken for a biopsy, in which it’s studied in a lab setting to identify the risk of cancer. If care is needed, we can discuss possible solutions, creating a personalized treatment plan, or referring you to a specialist as needed.
If you have any questions about diagnosing and treating common oral pathologies, or if you have an area in your mouth that concerns you, then contact our team today to learn more. We want to help you and your family enjoy good oral health, and better overall health as well.
Ready for Your Next Appointment?
Don’t ignore changes to your smile, instead give us a call to schedule a consultation. If you would like to learn more about procedures and treatment options, then contact your Santa Rosa, CA, oral surgeons by calling 707-545-4625. We’re happy to see you and answer any questions or concerns you may have.
