Oral pathology is a dental specialty that focuses on the causes and treatments of oral diseases. This involves the teeth, supporting bones, TMJ, gums, tongue, and soft tissues in the mouth. The inside of your mouth, called the mucosa, should be smooth and pink. Any changes to this could indicate an infection or disease. It’s important to maintain regular checkups with your dentist, who will notice any irregularities and refer you to an oral surgeon for treatment.
What Are the Signs of an Oral Pathology?
Oral diseases come in many shapes and colors. We recommend performing a monthly self-evaluation to note when or if changes appear. To do this, run your finger around the insides of your cheeks, lips, and mouth. Feel for bumps or irregularities. You should do this in front of a mirror and look at the top, bottom, and sides of your mouth, in case there are patches or discolored areas that would not feel different to the touch.
The following are common signs of an oral pathology:
- Red or white patches
- A sore that does not heal or bleeds easily
- Lumps, bumps, or thick parts of the mucosa
- Chronic sore throat
- Difficulty chewing or swallowing
Treatment and Tumour Removal
Dr. Stefanuto will assess the area and sometimes perform a biopsy to determine if it is benign (noncancerous) or malignant (cancerous). Based on the results, he will devise a specific treatment plan for you. The vast majority of oral pathologies are benign. It’s important to remember that cancer does not always cause pain, and just because you’re not experiencing symptoms doesn’t mean there isn’t a problem. Attend regular dental checkups and call our office if you suspect an oral pathology.