Oral Pathology

Oral Pathology

The field of dentistry is constantly evolving, with new discoveries being made daily. Oral pathology is the branch of dentistry that studies oral conditions, whether they affect the oral glands, jaw joints, or mouth muscles. The more experts learn about the teeth, jaw, and gums; the easier it is for dentists and surgeons to treat common and uncommon diseases.

The Study of Symptoms

From cold sores to fungal overgrowth, oral conditions manifest and develop differently from patient to patient. An oral pathologist studies these symptoms and notes the patterns they see. Once they know more about how the patient reacts to different conditions, it’s easier to recommend treatment plans.

For example, let’s say that a person develops a cold sore, also known as Herpes Simplex Virus Type 1. This often painful condition has no cure (and it’s also one of the more contagious oral diseases). Suppose a patient is having trouble eating due to the discomfort of the cold sore. In that case, an oral pathologist may be able to recommend an antiviral cream or prescription to provide the patient with some relief.

The Prevention of Oral Cancer

Oral cancer affects tens of thousands of people in the US, and it caused nearly 11,000 deaths in 2021 alone. While the main causes for oral cancer tend to be heavy tobacco and alcohol use, it’s also connected to anything from poor diet to too much time in the sun. Regular dental exams and cleanings aren’t just ways to keep your teeth and gums healthy, it’s a way to spot the early signs of oral cancer and either try to head them off before they develop or start early treatments.

Why See an Oral Pathologist in Roswell, GA?

An oral pathology team is concerned with how patients experience different oral conditions. The more they research and advance the field, the easier and faster it is to treat different oral conditions. While all dental professionals are required to complete ongoing education to keep their credentials, some go further than others to stay on top of the latest research. If you’re looking for a team that’s on the cutting-edge of the industry, contact Attia Oral, Facial & Implant Surgery to schedule an appointment today.