Oral pathology is the practice of examining patients to detect and diagnose oral health problems. If you’re experiencing health concerns affecting your teeth, gums, tongue, or any other area of your mouth, an oral pathologist can perform the tests necessary to pinpoint symptoms’ causes. In many cases, these screenings can help people catch and treat serious medical issues early on to prevent further complications. To help you learn more about this invaluable practice, here are a few important facts you should know.

Simple Guide to Oral Pathology

1. What Does Screening Entail?

Dentists or other pathology professionals typically begin testing by performing an oral exam—a physical inspection of teeth, gums, cheeks, and other components of the mouth. If the specialist needs a deeper look, they may perform a dental X-ray or CT scan to see what’s happening inside teeth, jawbones, and other structures. Providers will also review a patient’s medical history and lifestyle habits to determine if they have a higher risk for certain conditions.

Depending on the symptoms present providers may swab tissue to test for viral infections. If a growth or lesion has occurred, a biopsy may also be conducted. A biopsy is the process of removing a small section of tissue and testing it in a lab to determine if a growth is cancerous or benign.

2. What Conditions Can an Oral Pathologist Help Diagnose?

Oral pathology is used to diagnose a wide range of problems. Most commonly, exams are used to detect dental health problems, such as gum disease, cavities, infections, impacted teeth, and jaw problems. Testing may also help diagnose oral cancer, herpes, fungal infections, canker sores, and salivary disorders.

3. When Should I Consider an Exam?

In general, you should visit a dentist every six months for a comprehensive oral exam. During this exam, your dentist will check for changes in your teeth and gums and, if necessary, offer treatment to protect your smile.

However, oral exams and screening tests aren’t just for preventive care. If you experience chronic or progressive symptoms affecting your mouth, it may be in your best interest to talk to a specialist about your screening options. Some symptoms that may warrant testing include red or white patches in the mouth, a persistent sore throat, chronic pain or sensitivity, shifting teeth, abscesses, bleeding tissue, and open sores that won't heal.   

If you are in need of examination, turn to the specialists at Oral Surgery Associates of Alaska. Led by a team of experienced oral surgeons, this practice is equipped to perform in-depth exams and testing to diagnose a wide range of health issues. In addition to oral pathology services, this Anchorage, AK, clinic also offers comprehensive, comfortable, and cost-effective treatment for common dental health issues—including jaw surgery and wisdom teeth removal. To learn more about these services, visit this practice online. For appointments, call the clinic directly at (907) 561-1430.