Oral Pathology in Cincinnati & Mason, OH

Oral Disease Identification & Management

Changes to the inside of the mouth or around the face could be a warning sign of a pathological process. Cysts, ulcers, infections, and congenital diseases are some of the most common oral pathologies, the most severe being cancer. Early detection of any oral abnormality is essential for treating the disease or infection, and in the case of oral cancer, early treatment can save your life.

Dr. Robert Lucas, Dr. Garrett Seghi, and Dr. Eric Murnan are board-certified oral and maxillofacial surgeons who can detect, diagnose, and treat oral cancer and disease. Contact Oral Surgery & Dental Implant Specialists of Cincinnati, if you notice any changes in or around your mouth, or if it's time for your oral cancer screening. Our experts manage oral cancer and disease at our offices in Cincinnati and Mason, OH.

Signs of Oral Cancer and Disease

Because there aren’t always noticeable symptoms of pain or discomfort, it’s important to maintain regular dental appointments and monthly at-home examinations for optimal prevention. While observing the inside of your mouth in a mirror, be sure to examine around your teeth, gums, cheeks, and tongue. When healthy, the inside of the mouth is smooth-surfaced and pink in color.

If you observe any changes, be sure to contact one of our oral and maxillofacial experts. Any noticeable variations may be an indication of a benign or cancerous pathology. Some of the most common symptoms include:

Visible patches of discoloration, usually red or white
Sores inside the mouth that fail to heal or bleed easily
Thickening of the inside linings of the mouth
Changes in the pigmentation of the lips, gums, or tongue
Significant difficulty with chewing or swallowing
Chronic sore throat

It’s important to note that oral cancer does not always cause noticeable symptoms or discomfort. Your dentist checks for signs of oral cancer during regular dental exams. If you have not been to the dentist for a checkup in a while, or if you suspect oral cancer, we encourage you to contact our office for an oral health evaluation and oral cancer screening.

Treatment for Oral Pathology

Dr. Lucas, Dr. Seghi, or Dr. Murnan will examine in and around the mouth to detect signs of oral cancer or disease. 3D images may be taken of your face and mouth to evaluate the facial structures and detect hidden oral health concerns.

In most cases, your surgeon will perform a biopsy of the affected area to determine if the pathological process is cancerous or noncancerous. To perform a biopsy, your surgeon will numb the area and take a small tissue sample, which will be sent to a lab for a diagnosis. We offer many types of anesthesia and will discuss these options with you prior to any procedure. The results of the biopsy will determine the next steps to take.

Benign growths or infections are treated with oral medications, prescription creams, or simple removal procedures. Common viral and fungal infections include herpes simplex type 1 (HSV-1) and candidiasis (thrush).

If the biopsy results indicate the presence of oral cancer, the right treatment will depend on the severity and type of cancer. Treatments may include chemotherapy, radiation therapy, or surgeries to remove the affected areas.

Oral Cancer Prevention

While there is not a proven way to prevent mouth cancer, there are measures you can take to reduce your risk of developing oral cancer.

Stop using tobacco, or don’t start using tobacco
If you drink alcohol, do so in moderation
Protect your lips from excessive sun exposure with a broad-brimmed hat or sunscreen lip product
See your dentist for regular checkups

By doing your part, you can reduce the risk of oral cancer and take positive steps toward protecting your oral and overall health.