At Petaluma Oral Surgery & Dental Implant Center, we prioritize your long-term oral health and wellbeing. One of the most essential services we provide is the identification and diagnosis of oral pathology. Oral pathology refers to the study and treatment of diseases that affect the mouth, jaws and surrounding facial structures. Our goal is to detect abnormal changes early, when they are most treatable, and to guide you through the appropriate steps for further care.
Recognizing the Signs of Oral Disease
Many oral diseases and conditions may initially present with subtle signs. During your evaluation, our experienced oral surgeons will thoroughly examine the oral cavity, head and neck for any abnormal lesions, growths or changes. Some of the most concerning symptoms include:
- A persistent sore or ulcer in the mouth or on the lips that does not heal within two weeks
- Red, white or mixed red-and-white patches in the mouth
- A lump, swelling or thickened area in the cheek, tongue or gums
- Chronic hoarseness or sore throat
- Pain or difficulty chewing, swallowing or speaking
- Numbness or unexplained discomfort in the face, neck or mouth
- A change in how your teeth or dentures fit together
These may be signs of a benign condition or an early indicator of something more serious, such as oral cancer.
Early Detection Is Key
Oral cancer is among the most serious conditions we screen for. When detected in its early stages, oral cancer is far more likely to respond to treatment successfully. Our oral surgeons and team are trained to identify the earliest signs of pathological changes, and we use advanced diagnostic tools to aid in evaluation. These may include digital imaging, biopsies and laboratory analysis to determine the nature of the abnormality.
What to Expect During a Pathology Consultation
If you visit us with a concern or we identify something during a routine exam, we will begin by gathering a complete history of your symptoms and medical background. We may recommend a biopsy, where a small tissue sample is collected for microscopic examination. Depending on the results, we will discuss the next steps with you, whether that involves surgical treatment, additional testing or referral to a specialist.
Your health and peace of mind are our top priorities. If you have noticed any unusual symptoms or changes in your mouth, we encourage you to contact our office at 707-769-1414 and make an appointment with Dr. Jiries Mogannam, Dr. Vicente Chavez, Dr. Christopher Chow or Dr. William Verlinden for a comprehensive oral pathology evaluation in Petaluma, California. Early action can make all the difference.
