Oral Pathology

Identify & Manage Oral Disease

Maintaining good dental health involves staying vigilant about oral pathology. Oral pathology focuses on identifying and managing changes in your mouth or face that could indicate disease. These changes can range from common issues like cysts, ulcers, and infections to more severe conditions, including oral cancer.

At Alpine Surgical Arts, our skilled oral surgeons, Dr. Haghighi and Dr. Rowan, are dedicated to diagnosing and treating oral diseases, including oral cancer. We strive to deliver exceptional care and effective clinical outcomes. If you have any concerns about oral health or notice any unusual symptoms, please contact our office to schedule a consultation with one of our experts.

Signs of Oral Abnormalities

Oral disease doesn’t always present with pain or discomfort, which is why regular dental visits and self-examinations are crucial. We recommend conducting a monthly oral exam at home. Begin by standing in front of a mirror, opening your mouth wide, and checking for any abnormalities. Look for visible patches of discoloration, persistent sores, or thickened areas in the mouth. Notice any difficulties with chewing or swallowing. If you observe any of these signs, consult an oral and maxillofacial surgeon promptly, as they may indicate benign or malignant conditions.

Key signs to watch for include:

• Unusual patches of discoloration in the mouth
• Sores that persist beyond two weeks
• Thickening or lumps in the oral tissues
• Trouble chewing, swallowing, or speaking
• Persistent hoarseness or sore throat
• Numbness or pain in the mouth or lips
• Loose teeth or changes in your bite
• Swollen or bleeding gums
• Ongoing bad breath

If you notice any of these symptoms, scheduling a consultation with our oral surgeons is essential. We offer thorough oral cancer screenings and will discuss tailored treatment options based on your specific needs.

Treatment for Any Oral Pathology

Treatment for oral diseases depends on the condition’s nature. During your visit, our oral surgeons will perform a comprehensive oral examination and may use 3D imaging to assess your condition.

If needed, a biopsy might be performed to further investigate the issue. Before the biopsy, a local anesthetic will be administered to numb the area, ensuring you remain comfortable during the procedure.

Once the area is numb, your oral surgeon will carefully extract a small tissue sample from the affected area. This sample will be analyzed in a laboratory to determine the exact diagnosis. Based on the results, your oral surgeon will discuss the appropriate treatment options with you.

For benign growths or infections, treatments may include oral medications, topical creams, or minor surgical procedures. Common viral and fungal infections, such as herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1) and candidiasis (thrush), can be managed effectively with appropriate therapies.

More severe conditions, such as oral cancer, might require extensive treatments like chemotherapy, radiation, or surgery. Your oral surgeon will provide detailed information and support to guide you through the treatment process.

Preventing Oral Cancer

Although there is no guaranteed way to prevent oral cancer, you can take steps to lower your risk:

• Avoid Tobacco Products: Tobacco use is a major risk factor for oral cancer.
• Limit Alcohol Intake: Moderation in alcohol consumption can help reduce risk.
• Protect Your Lips from Sun Exposure: Use lip balm with SPF to shield your lips from harmful UV rays.
• Regular Dental Checkups: Consistent visits to your dentist can help detect issues early.

Taking these preventive measures can contribute to better oral health and potentially lower the risk of developing oral cancer.