Oral Pathology

Oral pathology involves disease that can develop inside your mouth, salivary glands, or jaws. Regular dental exams are an important part of maintaining your oral health and can be helpful in early detection of any changes or abnormalities. Most changes in your oral cavity will not be serious, but they should be evaluated by an oral surgeon. A delayed diagnosis can increase the risk of severe complications and the need for a more extensive treatment.

An oral and maxillofacial surgeon is the most qualified medical provider to diagnose and treat oral pathologies and oral cancer. When you come to Alfi Oral, Dental Implant & Facial Surgery, one of our specialists will provide a comprehensive exam and determine the correct course of treatment for you. 

Common Signs of Oral Pathology

The inside of the mouth is lined with mucous membranes. When healthy, the lining should be smooth and range in color from red to pink. You should perform a self-examination once a month to look for changes in and around your mouth. Look at the lining of your mouth, the roof of your mouth, and under your tongue to get familiar with what your mouth looks like. 

The most common signs and symptoms to be aware of when looking for a pathological process in and around the mouth include: 

• Reddish or whitish patches in the mouth 
• A sore that won't heal and bleeds easily 
• Lumps or bumps that develop on the skin lining inside the mouth 
• Oral or facial pain that does not resolve 
• A hoarse voice or chronic sore throat 
• Difficulty chewing or swallowing 

If you notice any changes, such as the ones listed above, schedule an appointment with an oral and maxillofacial surgeon like the experts at Alfi Oral, Dental Implant & Facial Surgery.

Treatment for Oral Disease and Oral Cancer 

Dr. David Alfi has received extensive training in the diagnosis and treatment of all forms of oral pathology. At your first visit, we will perform a complete oral examination and take 3D scans to get detailed images of your mouth and face. 

To determine if the pathological process is malignant or benign, your oral surgeon may perform a biopsy. This allows us to test the tissue and determine a treatment plan based on the results. This is most often performed with the use of local anesthesia to numb the biopsy area, but we also offer several anesthesia and sedation options to ensure patients are comfortable and relaxed during treatment. 

Treatment for oral cancer includes chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and various types of surgeries to remove the affected area. Our surgeons are experts in reconstructive surgeries and will thoroughly review your condition before recommending any treatment. You can significantly decrease your risk of oral cancer by avoiding tobacco products, limiting alcohol, practicing good oral hygiene, and maintaining a healthy lifestyle.

Oral Pathology in Houston, TX