Oral Pathology

The Oral & Maxillofacial Surgeon is the specialist to whom most patients seen in private practice are referred to when there is a concern that there may be some kind of soft or hard tissue abnormality (pathology). 

Abnormal oral lesions are often noticed by the patient, or discovered upon routine dental examination. When the lesion appears to be suspicious for possible pathology, a biopsy may be indicated. Biopsies are normally performed n the office under local anesthesia. The biopsy specimen is then sent to an Oral Pathologist for microscopic analysis, and the results are usually available in 3 - 4 days following the procedure. Once the results are received, Dr. Digney will review them with you, and will discuss any further treatment that may be required.

Oral cancer screenings are important in detecting lesions that either are, or possibly have the potential to develop into cancerous lesions. These lesions are often noticed by the patient but may be ignored, as they are usually painless. 

Things to look for include:

• Reddish patches (erythroplakia) or whitish patches (leukoplakia) anywhere in the mouth.
• A sore that fails to heal and bleeds easily, and may be painless.
• A lump or thickening on the skin lining the inside of the mouth.
• Chronic sore throat or hoarseness and/or difficulty in chewing or swallowing.
• Any rough textured tissue that may be detected.
• Persistent numbness anywhere in the mouth or on the face.

We would recommend performing an oral cancer self-examination monthly. Do not ignore suspicious lumps or sores. Please contact us so we may help if you notice anything unusual.

Dr. Digney has extensive experience in the evaluation and management of oral pathologic conditions of the head and neck, and frequently lectures to medical and dental audiences on oral pathology.