What is oral pathology?
Oral pathology is the specialty of dentistry and discipline of pathology that deals with the nature, identification, and management of diseases affecting the oral and maxillofacial regions. In other words, oral pathology refers to diseases of the mouth.
Types of Oral Pathology include:
- Periodontal disease (gum disease)
- Oral cancer (the most serious type of oral pathology)
- Candidiasis (Thrush)
- Hairy tongue
- Hand, foot and mouth disease
The inside of the mouth is normally lined with a special type of skin (mucosa) that is smooth and coral pink in color. Any changes in color or texture could be warning signs for an oral disease
5 Signs that Indicate Serious Oral Pathology, or Oral Cancer
- Reddish patches (erythroplasia) or whitish patches (leukoplakia) in the mouth
- A sore that fails to heal and bleeds easily
- A lump or thickening on the skin lining the inside of the mouth
- Chronic sore throat or hoarseness
- Difficulty in chewing or swallowing
Risk Factors and Causes of Oral Cancer:
- Long-term tobacco use
- Long-term alcohol use
- Human papilloma virus (HPV)
- Poor nutrition and health.
How to Preform Self-Exams for Oral Cancer
- Remove any dentures.
- Look and feel inside your lips and the front of your gums.
- Tilt your head back to inspect and feel the roof of your mouth.
- Pull your cheek out to inspect it and the gums in the back. 5. Pull out your tongue and look at its top and bottom.
- Feel for lumps or enlarged lymph nodes (glands) in both sides of your neck, including
- under the lower jaw.
Remember, your mouth is one of your body’s most important warning systems. Do not ignore any suspicious lumps or sores. If you notice any changes in your mouth, please schedule an appointment with us right away. Early detection is absolutely essential for treatment.
