Pathology
What Is Oral Pathology?
Oral pathology is a dental specialty that deals with the diagnosis and treatment of diseases in the mouth and maxillofacial areas. Pathology represents a departure from the norm, and that can encompass a wide range of conditions affecting the mouth. One of the most important things to remember about oral pathology is that most cases are benign. People often associate the word “pathology” with cancer, and while cancer can be an oral pathology, not all oral pathology is cancer. A thorough examination and evaluation is critical to identify any conditions and decide upon a treatment or management plan.
When you visit the Arizona Center for Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery for any oral pathology concerns, Dr. Charles Loschiavo will thoroughly examine you, take biopsies if necessary, and conduct other tests as indicated. Some conditions, like erythroplakia and leuokoplakia, are at high risk of developing into cancer and are best removed as a preventative measure. In many cases, the area of concern is removed preemptively to avoid further issues, or to resolve discomfort. If no surgery is recommended, you may still need regular visits to monitor your condition.
When you visit the Arizona Center for Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery for any oral pathology concerns, Dr. Charles Loschiavo will thoroughly examine you, take biopsies if necessary, and conduct other tests as indicated. Some conditions, like erythroplakia and leuokoplakia, are at high risk of developing into cancer and are best removed as a preventative measure. In many cases, the area of concern is removed preemptively to avoid further issues, or to resolve discomfort. If no surgery is recommended, you may still need regular visits to monitor your condition.
Signs of Oral Pathology
- White or red patches inside the mouth (leukoplakia, erythroplakia, erythroleukoplakia)
- Sores (ulcerations), especially if they bleed easily and don’t heal
- Unusual thickening of oral tissue
- Lumps, growths, or masses
- Enlarged lymph nodes in the neck
- Unexplained numbness
- Chronic sore throat
- Hoarseness
- Difficulty swallowing or chewing
Having a thorough examination is necessary to identify the cause of your symptoms
You may or may not have pain with these symptoms. Having a thorough examination is necessary to identify the cause of your symptoms and to rule out serious conditions.
If you have risk factors like a family history of oral pathology, smoking, wearing dentures, or having crowns and bridges, you may be more susceptible to problematic oral issues. Getting a prompt evaluation of any abnormal condition is essential for early diagnosis and treatment.
If you have risk factors like a family history of oral pathology, smoking, wearing dentures, or having crowns and bridges, you may be more susceptible to problematic oral issues. Getting a prompt evaluation of any abnormal condition is essential for early diagnosis and treatment.
Get Answers to Your Oral Pathology Questions
Finding any unusual growth or discolorations in your mouth can be alarming, but getting a prompt and professional evaluation can put your mind at ease.
Our patient Larry had some concerns that Dr. Loschiavo was able to quickly address.
“This was my second visit to Dr. Loschiavo in two years. My first visit was a simple exam and expressing some bad bone tissue put in years earlier in Colorado. The second visit was to eliminate infected bone tissue and appears successful. Had a question about some discoloring of tissue and received a quick cheerful reply by Dr. Loschiavo. He and his staff make you feel like family and I won’t soon forget the nurse talking me through any of my discomfort during the procedure.”
Contact Us for More Information
At the Arizona Center for Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery in Tucson, Arizona, we use state-of-the-art technology to treat our patients. We perform oral surgery procedures like dental implants and wisdom tooth extraction and management, in addition to other services like oral pathology. Patients with dental anxiety can rely on us for compassionate care that maximizes their comfort, and we’re experienced with treating people of all ages, including those who may have special needs, like the elderly and disabled. If you have an urgent need, we can almost always get you in quickly to see the doctor, even if you’re a new patient. Contact us to learn more about the procedures we perform, or to schedule an appointment.
