Oral Pathology and Biopsy
Oral Pathology and Biopsy
Oral Pathology and Biopsy Columbus, OH
An oral exam is routinely performed by the dentist during an exam and regular check-ups. An oral cancer exam refers to the identification and management of diseases pertaining to the maxillofacial and oral regions.
The soft tissue of your mouth is normally lined with mucosa, which should appear smooth in texture and pink in color. Any alteration of the color or texture of the mucosa may signal the beginning of a pathologic process. These changes may occur on your face, neck, and areas of the mouth. The most serious of these pathologic changes, which is not always painful, is oral cancer, but there are also many other common pathologic problems.
There are many reasons why it is a good idea to schedule regular visits with East Columbus Periodontic and Implant Dentistry throughout the year, but one that is often overlooked is the fact that these visits also allow us to monitor your overall oral health and identify potential issues early on. We are not just examining your teeth, we are examining your glands, the areas outside your mouth, gums, temporomandibular joint, skin, lips, and palate.
If we have determined that you need to have a biopsy, there is no need to worry. Most lesions are determined to be benign, but it is always best to be cautious. During the biopsy process, we will remove the tissue and send it to a lab to determine the nature of the growth. If the results do come back positive, we will help you develop a treatment plan that best fits your case and needs.
At East Columbus Periodontic and Implant Dentistry, our entire team loves helping you develop optimal oral health as well as a functional and healthy smile. Our team uses forward thinking treatments and state-of-the-art technology, to ensure the most comfortable treatment for you. Our practice focuses on delivering personal care and developing individual treatment plans based on your unique needs. We emphasize preventive care and patient education because we want you to understand why it is important to keep your mouth healthy and how to do it. We are located at 5180 E. Main St., Suite A, Columbus, OH, 43213. Please call us today at 614-864-2561 to establish an appointment for an evaluation of the benefits of oral pathology and a biopsy.
SERVICES
Contributions to Oral Cancer
Approximately 50,000 Americans are diagnosed every year with oral cancer. Close to 10,000 will be fatal. Originally smoking was the primary risk factor. Now new research indicates that several other factors, such as alcohol consumption, genetic predisposition, ethnicity, and gender, oral cancer is the sixth most common cancer in men, can increase your risk for developing oral cancer.
Additional risk factors include poor oral hygiene, nutritional deficiencies, chronic infection, and even improperly fitting dentures. With these quantifiable statistics, it is essential to schedule regular oral cancer screenings, which can take place at your regularly scheduled dental exams.
The Presentation of Lesions
Lesions can present themselves in a variety of tissue areas, including the following:
- Lymph tissue
- Soft tissue
- Mucosa
- Muscle
- Bone
- Salivary glands
- Teeth
- Nerves
- Hard tissue
If you have experienced any unusual changes to your oral health or felt any lumps that you have not noticed before, it is critical that you schedule an appointment with East Columbus Periodontic and Implant Dentistry as soon as possible.
COMMON PERIODONTAL PROCEDURES
Treatment of Pathological Diseases
In most cases, the pathological changes experienced in the oral region are uncomfortable and disfiguring but are not life threatening. However, oral cancer is on the rise, especially with men, and the chances of survival are around 80% if an immediate diagnosis can be made.
Oral cancer is a common term used when referring to any type of cancer affecting the tongue, jaw, and lower cheek area. Since it is impossible for us to decisively diagnose a pathological disease without taking a biopsy sample of the affected area, seeking immediate treatment when changes are first noticed could be a life and death decision. For less serious problems, there are several options available:
- Antibiotics – With a bacterial infection or persistent soreness, we may prescribe a dose of antibiotics to return the mucosa to its natural state. This will alleviate soreness and discomfort.
- Diluted Hydrogen Peroxide – If your poor oral hygiene is causing changes to the soft tissue, we may prescribe a diluted hydrogen peroxide mouthwash. This will kill more bacteria than regular mouthwash and improve your bad breath.
- Oral Surgery – If you have cysts or abnormal non-cancerous growths, we may decide to completely remove them. This can improve comfort levels, alleviate breathing problems, and make speech substantially easier depending on the location of the cyst.
Practice Monthly Self Examinations
One of the best things you can do to detect oral cancer symptoms early is to practice simple monthly self-exams. If you are not currently doing so, please follow these instructions.
- If applicable, remove your dentures or other orthodontic appliances.
- Tilt your head back to examine the roof of your mouth.
- Feel inside your gums to see if there are any abnormalities or any new growths.
- Use your index finger to fishhook and pull out your cheeks. As you do, closely observe the surrounding teeth and gums to see if there are any abnormalities or new growths.
- Massage or prod your jaw and neck to see if there are any signs of enlarged glands or lumps.
In addition to this self-exam, be sure to contact East Columbus Periodontic and Implant Dentistry if you are experiencing or notice any of the following:
- Red and white patches.
- Lumps or masses that suddenly develop in your neck.
- Chronic cough, hoarseness, or a sore throat.
- Sores that are bleeding or do not heal.
- Difficulty swallowing.
If you have experienced any suspicious changes to your oral health or felt any lumps that you have not noticed before, it is critical that you schedule an appointment with us as soon as possible. We understand the urge to ignore issues until they go away but addressing any issues early can help prevent more serious problems from developing.
WHAT OUR PATIENTS SAY
Dr. Levy and the staff are wonderful, friendly, caring people. They make you feel calm during what can be a very stressful time. I had a deep cleaning & extraction yesterday and it was painless and quick. I was in and out in just a little over an hour. I received instructions for my aftercare along with the items needed to take care of my mouth. I feel wonderful today, no pain and eating normally. If you have anxiety about visiting the dentist, come see Dr. Levy and staff, they will put you at ease and take good care of you!
- Christi L
Everyone made me feel so welcomed even though I was nervous, Dr. Levy was great and informative made me feel very comfortable. I would recommend this office to anyone.
- Dee H.
The Cost of Your Oral Pathology and Biopsy
The cost of your treatment will vary depending on your individual needs and your treatment plan. We will discuss with you the cost of your treatment and each of your available payment options before we begin, so that you can make the best choice for your situation.
Affordable Payment Plans
Your smile is an invaluable asset, and we want to make it as easy as possible for you to receive the best dental care when you need it. East Columbus Periodontic and Implant Dentistry accepts most major credit cards and insurance plans. Our office staff is always available to help you with insurance claims and paperwork. We will work with your insurance provider to make sure that your coverage meets your needs and your budget.
Please let us know if you have any questions about your insurance coverage.
A Mission Statement YOU can Trust for High Quality Periodontal Care
The entire team at East Columbus Periodontic and Implant Dentistry is focused on providing you with excellence in periodontal and implant care in a concerned, caring, gentle, friendly, and relaxed environment.
Our philosophy of care is multidisciplinary, to create partnerships with your general dentist as well as other dental specialists and provide you with the most comprehensive treatment planning and care that is available today.
Our team believes that communication is crucial for both you and us, both in written documentation and verbal communication. Value-based decisions are at the cornerstone of our personalized treatment for you. We are located at 5180 E. Main St., Suite A, Columbus, OH, 43213. Please call us today at 614-864-2561 to establish an appointment that works for your schedule.