Oral Pathology

Oral pathology focuses on the detection, diagnosis, and treatment of oral cancer and disease. Any change in the oral and maxillofacial region could indicate the presence of disease and should be evaluated by an oral health expert. The sooner oral cancer or disease is diagnosed, the better the outcome. 

Dr. Graves and Dr. Wilkinson are board-certified oral and maxillofacial surgeons who are trained to identify abnormalities in or around the mouth, diagnose the condition, and create a care plan to treat the pathological process. If you have noticed signs of oral cancer or disease, or if it has been a while since your last oral cancer screening, we encourage you to contact Lubbock Dental Specialists in Lubbock or Amarillo, TX, to schedule an appointment. 

Signs of Oral Cancer or Oral Disease

There are many different conditions that can develop inside the mouth and on the face. Some of the most common types of pathological processes that we diagnose and manage include oral cancer, cold sores, tumors, salivary gland disorders, and fungal, bacterial, and viral infections. Oral cancer does not always cause pain. In fact, many patients who have oral cancer are unaware that they have it at all because it can easily go unnoticed without regular screenings or checkups. 

Seek expert evaluation right away if you think you are developing an oral infection or notice any abnormalities, such as: 

• Sores that bleed easily or fail to heal 
• Red or white patches 
• Discoloration of any part of the mouth 
• A lump, thickened, or rough spot 
• Pain or numbness in the mouth or on the lips 
• Difficulty chewing, speaking, or moving the tongue or jaw
• Chronic sore throat or hoarseness 
• Your teeth feel like they fit together differently 

Most cases can be treated easily when caught early. Although most conditions are non-cancerous, it is important to rule out oral cancer as soon as possible. Your general dentist will screen you for oral cancer during regular checkups. Be sure to see your dentist regularly so that any issues can be addressed quickly before the condition progresses. If an abnormality is present, your dentist may refer you to an oral surgeon for further diagnosing. 

Oral Cancer: Self-Exams and Prevention 

We recommend performing a self-examination of your mouth and face once every month. Stand in front of a mirror and look at all areas in and around your mouth. The color of the lining of your mouth should appear coral pink. If there is any discoloration, or if you notice any of the above symptoms, a pathological process may be present and you should contact our office for an examination. 

You are in control of your oral health in many ways. By practicing good oral hygiene and taking good care of your body, you can reduce your risk of oral cancer. This includes brushing your teeth twice every day, seeing your dentist regularly, eating a healthy diet, avoiding smoking, and limiting your use of alcohol. 

Oral Pathology Treatment 

Treatment for oral cancer or disease will vary depending on the diagnosis and severity of the condition. When you visit our office for a consultation, you will meet with Dr. Graves or Dr. Wilkinson. We may take 3D scans of your mouth and face to examine your facial structures and detect hidden oral health issues. We may perform a biopsy on the affected area using a local anesthetic. The specimen will be sent to a lab for a diagnosis and once we know the results, we can create a detailed care plan. 

Oral surgery may be necessary to remove a tumor. Antiviral or antibacterial medications can treat issues like cold sores, canker sores, and oral thrush. If the results of the biopsy indicate oral cancer, treatments like radiation therapy, chemotherapy, or surgery may be necessary depending on your condition. 

At Lubbock Dental Specialists, we will keep you informed about your condition and treatment options at every step. We understand that undergoing treatment for any type of cancer or disease can feel stressful, and our team is here to provide support and help you achieve an optimal outcome.

Oral Pathology at Lubbock Dental Specialists

If you notice anything different in or around your mouth, you should have an oral and maxillofacial surgeon evaluate your oral health as soon as possible to rule out oral cancer. Contact Lubbock Dental Specialists in Lubbock or Amarillo, TX, to schedule your oral cancer screening or to begin your treatment for oral cancer or disease.