The oral cavity is a unique and complex structure. The mouth is the gateway to the body and plays a vital role in digestion, breathing, and speech. It is also home to a wide variety of bacteria and other microorganisms.
The inside of the mouth is normally lined with a special type of skin (mucosa) that is smooth and coral pink in color. Any alteration in this appearance could be a warning sign of a pathological process. The most serious of these is oral cancer.
At Chester County Oral Surgery & Dental Implants, we offer professional oral pathology in West Chester, Kennett Square, and Wayne to effectively identify and treat oral diseases.
What Is Oral Pathology?
A pathological process is any change in the structure or function of the body that is caused by disease. Oral pathology is the study of these changes in the mouth. This includes the lips, gums, teeth, cheeks, palate, and floor of the mouth. Common oral diseases include:
- Oral cancer
- Candidiasis (thrush)
- Tonsillitis
- Salivary gland disease
To check for a pathological process, we recommend performing an oral cancer self-examination monthly and remembering that your mouth is one of your body’s most important warning systems. Do not ignore suspicious lumps or sores, as they could be indicative of a more serious problem.
If you are experiencing a pathological process, it is recommended that you visit us immediately for an initial consultation. Your oral surgeon will review your medical and dental history and perform a thorough examination of your mouth. If necessary, a biopsy will be performed to collect tissue samples for further testing. Once the diagnosis is made, we will develop a treatment plan that is tailored to your specific needs.
Signs of a Pathological Process
If you are undergoing a pathological process, you may notice:
- Reddish patches (erythroplasia) or whitish patches (leukoplakia) in the mouth
- A sore that fails to heal and bleeds easily
- A lump or thickening of the skin lining the inside of the mouth
- Chronic sore throat or hoarseness
- Difficulty in chewing or swallowing
These changes can be detected on the lips, cheeks, palate and gum tissue around the teeth, tongue, face and/or neck. Pain does not always occur with pathology, and pain is not often associated with oral cancer. However, any patient with facial and/or oral pain without an obvious cause may be at risk for oral cancer.
Contact Chester County Oral Surgery & Dental Implants Today
If you are concerned about a possible pathological process, contact Chester County Oral Surgery & Dental Implants today. We provide comprehensive oral pathology in West Chester and Kennett Square to accurately diagnose and treat oral diseases like oral cancer.
In addition to oral pathology, we offer a wide range of oral and maxillofacial surgery procedures. Schedule your appointment at our West Chester, Kennett Square or Wayne office today.
