Oral Pathology-Las Vegas NV.
Oral pathology is the specialty of dentistry and pathology which deals with the nature, identification, and management of diseases affecting the oral and maxillofacial regions. It is a science that investigates the causes, processes and effects of these diseases. The practice of oral pathology includes research, diagnosis of diseases using clinical, radiographic, microscopic, biochemical or other examinations, and management of patients. Dr. Letelier has over 10 years experience as an Oral Pathologist.
Oral Pathology
The inside of the mouth is normally lined with a special type of skin (mucosa) that is smooth and coral pink in color. Any alteration in this appearance could be a warning sign for a pathological process. The most serious of these is oral cancer. The following can be signs at the beginning of a pathologic process or cancerous growth:
- Reddish patches (erythroplasia) or whitish patches (leukoplakia) in the mouth
- A sore that fails to heal and bleeds easily
- A lump or thickening on the skin lining the inside of the mouth
- Chronic sore throat or hoarseness
These changes can be detected on the lips, cheeks, palate and gum tissue around the teeth, tongue, face and/or neck. Pain does not always occur with pathology, and curiously, is not often associated with oral cancer. However, any patient with facial and/or oral pain without an obvious cause or reason may also be at risk for oral cancer.
We would recommend performing an oral cancer self-examination monthly and remember that your mouth is one of your bodies most important warning systems. Do not ignore suspicious lumps or sores. Please contact us so we may help.
Dental infections
Dental infections usually start with a dental abscess. A dental abscess is a small area of pus filled with living and dead bacteria, white blood cells, and other debris. If a dental abscess grows it can invade into the muscles that open and close the mouth. When this happens your jaw may not be able to open completely (trismus).
Antibiotics and some form of surgical intervention is usually necessary to treat this infections. Depending on the severity of the infection and the restorability of the tooth, root canals, extractions or drainage of pus may be necessary. We perform the necessary procedures in our office under general anesthesia to provide you with the maximum comfort possible.
Oral Pathology - Las Vegas NV. - By Dr. Carlos Letelier MD
