Share:

The mouth is susceptible to more than just cavities. Several diseases and conditions can develop, and not all are handled by a general dentist. Oral pathology is a special field within dentistry that addresses these problems. It requires additional dental care training, and for many patients, it can be lifesaving. Below, you’ll find everything you need to know about the topic.

Understanding Oral Pathology

What Does It Treat?

Oral pathology focuses on suspect growths and conditions of the mouth—not the teeth. The most recognizable is oral cancer, which can develop on the tongue, lips, cheek, roof of the mouth, and throat. An oral pathologist will identify and test for benign and malignant growths based on common side effects. This may include taking an oral biopsy—removing a section of the suspect tissue.

oral-pathology-barabooAn oral pathologist will also address tumors of the salivary glands, cold sores, canker sores, yeast infections, and bad breath. If side effects like dry mouth or tissue sores develop from medication, they’ll provide alternatives to alleviate them.

What Treatment Options Are Available?

In the case of oral cancer, oral pathology can be lifesaving. An oral pathologist is trained in surgery or connected with a surgical team that can remove malignant growths and cancerous formations in the mouth.

Like all medical professionals, they focus on detection and diagnosis, however. Oral pathology involves clinical testing of tissue, radiographic examinations, including X-rays, microscope examinations, and biochemical tests and treatments. Staying ahead of oral cancer is crucial. If you’re over 40, smoke or drink alcohol in excess, have oral HPV, or have a history of oral cancer, schedule an oral cancer screening every year.

 

If you’re interested in exploring oral pathology further, contact Oral Surgery Center, S.C. This Baraboo, WI, practice is led by Drs. Erich Herbst and Steven Anderson who treat several oral health conditions. They and their skilled team can address oral cancer, handle tooth extractions, and provide dental implant surgery. Learn more about the practice on their website and call (608) 356-2112 to schedule an exam.

tracking