Oral Pathology

When Should You Visit an Oral Surgeon or Oral Pathologist?

You should book an appointment with Dr. Fagin when there are changes in the tissue of the mouth that last for more than two weeks. Some temporary inflammation and injuries can occur and aren’t always a reason to see an oral surgeon for a biopsy which would then be read by an oral pathologist. But, when the problem remains for over seven days, there’s an indicator that your oral pathologist in San Mateo will be needed to provide a detailed diagnosis and treatment plan.

Book an appointment with an oral surgeon for a biopsy read by an oral pathologist when…

• You have a lesion or sore in your mouth that doesn’t heal within two weeks.
• You have persistent or severe pain or discomfort in your mouth or around your gums and teeth.
• You discover lumps or swelling inside your mouth that doesn’t subside within a few days.
• You have persistent pain in your throat.
• You have difficulties swallowing or speaking.
• You have any type of numbness or bleeding in your mouth or lips.
• There’s a change in the color or texture of the soft tissues in your mouth.
• There are changes in your bite, your visible smile, or you have loose teeth.
• You can’t move your jaw properly or have difficulty opening your mouth.

Never ignore changes to the tissues or the function of your mouth. While these problems won’t always be related to oral pathology, getting an early diagnosis and treatment from your oral pathologist will ensure the best possible outcome. At Peninsula Oral and Facial Surgery we offer a detailed range of dental and maxillofacial services, ensuring that we can develop the best treatment plan whatever the underlying issue is.

What is an Oral Mucocele?

Oral pathology (sometimes misspelled as oral patholgy) can cover the detection and treatment of an oral mucocele.

Finding an oral mucocele can be distressing, but the treatment is usually straightforward. An oral mucocele is a type of non-cancerous cyst that develops in the mouth. The oral mucocele will usually appear on the inner surface of the lips (usually lower), the floor of the mouth, or on the tongue.

An oral mucocele develops when a salivary gland is damaged or blocked. Accumulation of fluid in the tissues under the mouth forms a cyst, which can be uncomfortable, but usually not painful. It can interfere with speaking, chewing, and biting if it becomes large enough.

While it’s more common for children and young adults to develop oral mucoceles, they can appear at any age.

Removal is a common treatment offered by your oral pathologist. The cyst can be drained, and, in some cases, the salivary gland will be removed to prevent further complications.

Do You Need a Pathologist for Mouth Ulcers?

Mouth ulcers are common throughout the general population, but they can be concerning if you don’t get them often or if you notice one for the first time in your mouth, or in the mouth of your child.

There is a range of reasons why ulcers develop, including trauma caused by biting the soft tissues in the mouth, brushing too hard, or chewing on something hard and sharp. There are also plenty of cases where mouth ulcers develop without any obvious underlying cause.

The treatment will depend on the type of ulcer and could include topical medication or oral medication to help clear up the damaged tissue. You can visit a pathologist for mouth ulcers that are severe and that last up to two weeks or longer.

Book an Appointment for Oral Pathology

Get the best treatment with oral pathology specialists at Peninsula Oral and Facial Surgery. Our team will ensure that your treatment is comfortable, effective, and focused on a positive outcome. Enjoy the most detailed care with the best oral pathologists in the Peninsula area.