Oral Pathology
Tumors, whether they be benign or cancerous malignant tumors can be found in the oral and maxillofacial region. Dr. Hernandez has years of experience in managing these tumors. Resection, or removal of growths are often necessary. Early detection of some growths can lead to full recovery ensuring the patient with a great outcome and a long and healthy life. Pain, bleeding, swellings and discoloration are often hallmark signs of the start of unusual growths of the face. At the earliest sign, please consult your physician for an examination and referral for appropriate care. Regular check-ups can also lead to early detection. A trained professional can often detect abnormal tissue and catch pathologies at an early stage.
Oral and maxillofacial surgeons frequently are called upon to diagnose and treat cancer and other diseases of the mouth, face and jaws. When oncologists or other medical specialists refer a patient to an Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon for surgery to remove cancerous or other destructive lesions/tumors, they do so knowing that the oral and maxillofacial surgeon has the education, training and surgical skill to excise the cancer and, if necessary, reconstruct the face and jaw area.
What are signs of Oral and Maxillofacial Diseases?
Your gums should normally look smooth and coral pink in color. If you notice a change in this appearance, it could be an early development of a pathological process. The most serious pathological disease is oral cancer. Here are some signs that could indicate the beginning of a pathologic process or cancer:
•White and Red patches in the mouth (see Figure 1 below).
•Sore(s) that bleed easily or fails to heal.
•Thickening or a lump on your gums inside your mouth.
•Difficulty swallowing or chewing.
•Constant sore throat or rasping.
Should I Check for Oral Pathologies?
You should check your mouth monthly and look for changes like the ones listed above. You should never ignore suspicious sores or lumps. Contact us immediately if you notice changes in and around your mouth.