Oral Surgery
Pathology Surgery
Oral Pathology
Oral Pathology is the specialty of dentistry involved with the diagnosis and management of diseases of the face, lips, oral cavity, jaws, and salivary glands, as well as management of oral manifestations of systemic diseases. Training in oral pathology is an integral part of our training in oral & maxillofacial surgery.
We perform a comprehensive head and neck examination on all of our patients, regardless of the reason for the visit. Because the mouth is a region where changes can be easily seen, oral cancer can be detected in its early stages.
We also recommend that our patients perform an oral cancer self-examination on a regular basis and we are happy to instruct them on how to do such an examination.
Risk Factors Associated With Development of Oral Cancer
Research has identified a number of factors that may contribute to the development of oral cancer. The most common are the use of tobacco and alcohol. The risk of developing oral cancer is about four times higher for cigarette smokers than for nonsmokers. It is also widely believed in the medical field that the heat generated by smoking pipes and cigars irritates the mouth and can lead to lip cancer. The use of smokeless tobacco or snuff is also associated with the development of oral cancer.
Keep in mind that your mouth is one of your body’s most important early warning systems. Don’t ignore any suspicious lumps or sores. Should you discover something, make an appointment for a prompt examination. Early treatment may well be the key to complete recovery.
Range of Possible Treatment
Mucocele Excision
Large or persistent mucocele (mucous-filled oral cysts) can be removed with cryotherapy, laser treatment, or surgery. Patients should not attempt to remove mucocele on their own.
Salivary Gland Infection / Stones
Salivary gland infections/stones can block the salivary glands and prevent the production of saliva in the mouth. Treatment involves a minimally invasive procedure to remove the stones and restore saliva flow.
Jaw Tumors & Cysts
Benign and malignant tumors or cysts can be discovered through X-rays or unexplained pain in the mouth or jaw. We will surgically remove jaw tumors or cysts and consider bone reconstruction, if necessary.