Braasch Oral Surgery provides extensive oral pathology services in Bedford, NH. For more information or to make an appointment, call our office at 603-657-1984.
What Is Oral Pathology?
Oral pathology is the branch of dentistry dealing with diseases of the oral and maxillofacial regions. Areas of concern include the mouth, tongue, head, throat and jaws.
Oral Biopsy
If your dentist or oral surgeon detects a problem area, they will recommend a biopsy. An oral biopsy involves removing a section of the problem area to allow for a definitive diagnosis.
Oral surgeons can perform many types of biopsies. They may involve removing some tissue with a scalpel or punch tool. The surgeon selects the biopsy type depending on the lesion's characteristics.
After the biopsy, the excised tissue goes to a pathology lab, where doctors analyze it for abnormalities. Most lesions are benign, but some may be cancerous or precancerous. If the lesion is cancerous, the oral surgeon will work with your oncologist to plan the surgery.
Signs You Need Oral Pathology
Dentists perform comprehensive oral exams at every visit that frequently detect possible issues. If your dentist refers you to oral pathology, they are concerned that a lesion or abnormality in your oral and maxillofacial area could present a problem.
Following are some of the concerning symptoms that you should bring to your dentist or oral surgeon's attention as soon as possible:
- Reddish or white patch inside your mouth
- Loose teeth
- Feeling a lump or growth in your mouth
- Pain in the mouth
- Pain in the ears
- Painful or difficult swallowing
- A mouth or lip sore that won't heal
Frequently Asked Questions About Oral Pathology
How common is oral cancer?
Oral cancer comprises about three percent of all cancers in the United States. There are about 53,000 new cases every year.
What are some of the risk factors for oral cancer?
- Men are at a greater risk than women
- People over 40
- People who use tobacco, especially chewing tobacco
- People who drink alcohol to excess
- Sun exposure to the lips
- HPV (Human Papillomavirus) infection or exposure
- A suppressed immune system
How long does a biopsy take?
Generally, an oral biopsy takes only about 15 minutes.
Is a biopsy painful?
A biopsy should not be painful with local anesthesia. Some soreness may happen during the healing process, but it should be short-lived.
How long will it take for the results to come back?
This period varies, but it could take as little as seven to 10 days for the pathology lab to return your results.
Call Braasch Oral Surgery
If you have oral symptoms that could indicate a problem, call our Bedford, NH, office as soon as possible at 603-657-1984. The sooner we can address your issue, the more likely you will receive successful treatment.