Oral Pathology Treatment in Long Island City
A healthy mouth starts with a proper diagnosis.
What Is Pathology?
Oral & Maxillofacial Pathology is a branch of dentistry that focuses on diagnosing and treating diseases of the mouth, jaws, and related structures. At Gantry Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery, our team specializes in identifying and managing a wide range of oral conditions, from common inflammations to rare tumors. This field involves careful examination of oral tissues, advanced imaging techniques, and sometimes biopsy and collaboration with oral pathologists to accurately diagnose issues that might be seen during routine dental check-ups.
Reasons for a Screening Exam
Early Detection of Serious Conditions
Oral pathology screenings can catch potential problems early, before they become more serious. This includes identifying precancerous lesions or early-stage oral cancer, which significantly improves treatment outcomes and overall prognosis.
Comprehensive Oral Health Understanding
Oral health is closely linked to overall health. Head and neck exams can reveal signs of systemic conditions (such as certain deficiencies, autoimmune diseases, or cancers) which may manifest in the area. This allows for timely referrals to the appropriate professionals for further evaluation and treatment.
Peace of Mind
For patients worried about changes in their oral tissues, examination and testing offers clarity. Whether confirming that a spot is harmless or identifying an issue that needs treatment, having a clear diagnosis helps patients make informed decisions about their oral health.
Have questions? We've got answers.
FAQs
What signs should prompt me to get an oral pathology exam?
Any persistent changes in the mouth should be evaluated. This includes:
- Red or white patches on the gums, tongue, or mouth lining
- Sores that don't heal within two weeks
- Lumps or thickening of oral tissues
- Chronic sore throat or hoarseness
- Difficulty chewing or swallowing
- Changes in your bite or the fit of dentures over a relatively short time period
- Onset numbness in or around the jaws or face
Even if these changes aren't painful, it's important to have them checked. Many serious oral conditions, including oral cancer, can be painless in early stages. We recommend patients perform regular self-exams and report any unusual changes promptly.
Is maxillofacial pathology only concerned with cancer?
While oral cancer detection is a crucial aspect of oral pathology, this field covers a much broader range of conditions. We diagnose and treats various oral diseases, including:
- Infections (bacterial, viral, or fungal)
- Developmental abnormalities
- Autoimmune disorders affecting the mouth
- Salivary gland disorders
- Jaw cysts and tumors (benign and malignant)
- Oral manifestations of systemic diseases
The goal of oral pathology is to maintain overall oral health and catch any issues early, regardless of their nature.
Are biopsies painful?
Most oral pathology procedures, including examinations and many biopsies, cause little to no discomfort. For biopsies or more involved procedures, we use local anesthesia to ensure patient comfort. In some cases, sedation options are available for anxious patients or more complex procedures. After a biopsy, patients might experience mild soreness for a day or two, which is usually manageable with over-the-counter pain relievers. We will provide detailed aftercare instructions to minimize discomfort and promote quick healing.
How long does it take to get biopsy results?
The timeframe for biopsy results can vary depending on the type of biopsy and the specific tests required. Generally, patients can expect results in about a week. For some routine biopsies, results might be available sooner. In cases where more complex analysis is needed, it might take a bit longer. We understand that waiting for results can be anxiety-inducing, so we work closely with our labs to process biopsies as quickly as possible without compromising the accuracy of the diagnosis. Patients are encouraged to contact the office if they haven't heard back within the expected timeframe.
How often should I have an oral pathology screening?
For most patients, an annual oral pathology screening as part of your regular dental check-up is sufficient. However, individuals with higher risk factors might need more frequent screenings. These risk factors include:
- History of tobacco or heavy alcohol use
- Previous oral cancer diagnosis
- Certain viral infections, like HPV
- Prolonged sun exposure (which can affect the lips)
We can assess individual risk factors and recommend an appropriate screening schedule. Additionally, patients should perform self-exams monthly and schedule an appointment if they notice any concerning changes between regular check-ups.