We use our mouths for a variety of tasks, such as eating, speaking, and breathing. Unfortunately, this puts our mouths at an increased risk for disorders and infection, known as oral pathology. Oral pathology refers to any disease that can develop inside the mouth, salivary glands, or jaws. While many oral pathologies are benign, it is always important to get proper evaluation and treatment of any oral pathology early in order to avoid severe complications or the need for a more extensive surgical procedures.

Some common examples of oral pathological processes include:

• Tonsillitis

• Strep throat

• Herpes simplex virus

• Mumps

• Salivary gland disease

• Oral ulceration

• Burning mouth syndrome

• Oral cancer

• Some autoimmune diseases

One of the most common areas that will show infection is the special lining of your mouth, called “mucosa,” which is smooth and coral pink in color. If you notice a change in the appearance of the lining of your mouth or in its structures, such as the tongue or tonsils, this may be a sign of a pathological process. Symptoms that may be indicative of oral pathology include:

• Chronic sore throat or hoarseness

• Difficulty in chewing or swallowing

• Reddish or whitish patches in the mouth

• A sore that fails to heal and bleeds easily

It is important to remember that while not all of these symptoms are painful, this does not mean that a problem does not exist. If you experience any of the above symptoms on your lips, cheeks, palate, or gum tissue around the teeth, tongue, face, and/or neck, you should contact one of our offices in Queensbury or Saratoga Springs, NY, immediately.

Oral and maxillofacial surgeons are experts in the evaluation and treatment of oral pathology. Please schedule a consultation with Drs. Kelling or Condry if you suspect you may be experiencing a pathological process. Your doctor will examine your mouth and its surrounding areas thoroughly to detect the presence of infection or disease and develop a personalized treatment plan to restore your oral health.

Northeast Surgical Specialists maintains two office locations in Saratoga Springs & Queensbury, NY, and offers various oral surgical procedures and treatments, including the treatment of oral pathology. Drs. Kelling and Condry service all of Saratoga and Warren Counties including Galway, Ticonderoga, Saranac Lake, Burnt Hills, Mechanicville, Lake Placid, Fort Ann, Malta, Hoosick Falls, Greenfield Center, Hudson Falls, Granville, Greenwich, Lake George, Gansevoort, Warrensbury, Schroon Lake, Wilton, Glens Falls, Queensbury, Saratoga, Corinth, Milton, Ballston Spa, Ballston Lake, South Glens Falls, Cambridge, Gloversville, and Clifton Park.

More Information about Oral Pathology:

• American Academy of Oral & Maxillofacial Pathology

• AAOMS

If you just want to ask a few questions, give us a call. You can find all the ways to contact us here. We look forward to hearing from you.