Sometimes, the skin on the inside of the mouth (called the mucosa) can develop abnormalities that need to be evaluated by a dental professional, preferably an oral and maxillofacial surgeon with special training in treating oral pathologies. The mucosa should appear smooth and coral pink in color, so if you notice any change in the color or texture of the mucosa, it could be a warning sign that you are developing an oral pathology in your mouth, salivary glands, or jaws. It’s important to keep an eye on the condition of your mouth because when oral pathologies are caught early, they are more easily treated. A monthly oral self-exam is a good habit to get into, especially since pain does not always occur with pathologies, particularly in the case of cancer. Don’t worry, most oral pathologies are harmless and benign, but it is important to get proper evaluation and treatment of any abnormality or lesion in your mouth. If you notice anything irregular, Dr. Jesin has the proper training and experience to take care of you.
If Dr. Jesin suspects that you have an oral pathology, he may perform a biopsy. An oral biopsy is a small sample of oral tissue that is removed by the oral surgeon and sent off to a lab for a diagnosis. Once there’s a diagnosis, they will recommend a treatment plan. He will go over everything with you in detail, answer any questions you may have, and work with you to develop the very best plan to get your mouth back to health.
Signs and Symptoms of Oral Pathologies
If you notice any of the following in your mouth, please call Advanced Oral Surgery & Dental Implant Studio to schedule a pathology screening so that we can help you get your oral health back on track:
- Red or white patches in the mouth
- A sore that fails to heal and/or bleeds easily
- A lump or irregularity on any part of the mucosa
- A chronic sore throat or hoarseness and/or difficulty in chewing or swallowing
Most changes in your oral cavity will not be serious, but any notable changes should be looked at by the doctor. Oral pathologies range from simple canker sores to more serious issues, such as oral cancer.
Oral Pathology in Grand Rapids, MI
Dr. Jesin has specific training in the identification and treatment of oral pathologies. If you have noticed something abnormal in your mouth, we hope that you will schedule an oral pathology screening. The oral health and overall health of our patients are very important to us, and we will make every effort to see you in our practice as soon as possible.