Oral Pathology

At Amedeo and Colonna, LTD in Park Ridge, oral pathology is a dental specialty that diagnoses and manages oral diseases, playing a key role in maintaining oral health. Count on Amedeo and Colonna, LTD in Park Ridge for all your oral health needs.

The Scope of Oral Pathology

Oral pathology is the study of oral conditions and their impact on overall health. It includes the diagnosis and management of diseases affecting the oral cavity, gums, salivary glands, palate, and soft tissue. Maxillofacial pathology focuses on the pathology of the maxillofacial region, including the jaws, face, and neck.

Overview and Importance

Good oral health is crucial for overall well-being. Oral pathology helps identify and prevent common oral conditions like dental caries, gum disease, canker sores, and oral thrush. Early detection and treatment planning by the experts at Amedeo and Colonna, LTD in Park Ridge lead to better patient outcomes and quality of life.

The Role of Oral Pathologists

Oral pathologists are dental professionals who specialize in diagnosing oral diseases. They conduct visual examinations, interpret tests, and determine the cause of oral conditions. From dental caries to oral thrush, they diagnose and treat a range of oral health issues in different settings.

Identifying Oral Diseases

To diagnose and treat oral diseases effectively, it is important to identify them. Visual examination of the oral cavity, soft tissue, and salivary glands can provide valuable insights. Symptoms like discomfort, burning mouth, numbness, bumps, sores, and lesions may indicate oral disease. Pay attention to these symptoms and seek professional dental care at Amedeo and Colonna, LTD in Park Ridge to prevent further problems.

Common Oral Diseases and their Symptoms

  • Dental caries is a common oral disease that causes tooth decay, discomfort, sensitivity, and a burning mouth sensation. 
  • Gum disease, also called periodontal disease, affects the gums and can cause bad breath, gum recession, and persistent oral discomfort. 
  • Canker sores are small painful lesions that can develop on the gums, inner cheeks, tongue, and other parts of the mouth, making eating and drinking uncomfortable. 
  • Dry mouth, also known as xerostomia, is characterized by a lack of saliva production, resulting in oral discomfort, difficulty swallowing, and an increased risk of dental caries and gum disease.

The Impact of Oral Diseases on Overall Health

Oral health is closely linked to overall health. Untreated oral conditions can impact systemic health, such as an increased risk of cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and preterm birth. Salivary problems and dry mouth can affect swallowing, digestion, and nutrition. 

Recognizing the impact of oral diseases on overall health emphasizes the need for early diagnosis, treatment, and prevention.

Early Signs and Symptoms

Early signs of oral cancer include persistent mouth sores, lumps, and the development of white or red patches in the mouth. Other symptoms may include difficulty swallowing, oral discomfort, numbness, or a change in denture fit. Recognizing these signs and seeking dental care at Amedeo and Colonna, LTD promptly can improve chances of successful treatment for oral cancer.

Risk Factors and Prevention

Oral cancer risk factors include smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, and HPV infection. To prevent oral cancer, maintain good oral hygiene, avoid tobacco and alcohol, and practice safe oral habits. Regular dental screenings at Amedeo and Colonna, LTD in Park Ridge and awareness of risk factors aid in prevention and early detection.

The Process of Oral Evaluation and Screening

Regular oral evaluation and screening at Amedeo and Colonna, LTD in Park Ridge are crucial for maintaining good dental health. Our experts use these assessments to detect issues early and prevent complications. The process involves examining the teeth, gums, and oral tissues, including screening for oral cancer. 

Modern technologies aid in early detection, leading to better treatment outcomes. Regular screening also helps identify common oral diseases and fungal infections, promoting overall dental health.

Oral Biopsy and Its Significance

Understanding the importance of oral biopsies is crucial for diagnosing oral pathologies. Biopsies help identify abnormalities and guide treatment decisions. They detect oral cancers, fungal infections, and other diseases. Biopsies also assess the impact of dental treatments, like implants, on oral tissues. Maxillofacial pathologists interpret biopsy results to provide valuable insights for effective oral healthcare.

When is an Oral Biopsy Needed?

An oral biopsy is necessary to diagnose suspicious oral lesions, including fever blisters, oral thrush, and canker sores. It enables early detection of serious oral problems when persistent lesions occur.

The Procedure and What to Expect

Oral biopsies are performed by oral pathologists. The procedure involves minimal discomfort and provides accurate diagnosis for appropriate treatment. At Amedeo and Colonna, LTD in Park Ridge,  patients are well-informed and experience a comfortable process, thanks to modern screening technologies and the expertise of our oral pathologists.

How Does Oral Pathology Relate to Everyday Dental Health?

Oral pathology is essential for oral hygiene and preventing serious oral health issues. Pathologists diagnose oral conditions through visual examination of the mouth for lesions and sores.

Schedule a consultation

Oral pathologists play a vital role in diagnosing and treating various oral diseases, including oral cancer. Regular screening and evaluation at Amedeo and Colonna, LTD are essential for early detection and prevention of these diseases. If you notice any symptoms or risk factors, it is important to seek professional help at Amedeo and Colonna, LTD immediately, and undergo an oral biopsy if necessary. 

By prioritizing your oral health and staying informed about oral pathology, you can ensure the overall well-being of your dental health. Remember, prevention is always better than cure when it comes to oral diseases. You can count on Amedeo and Colonna, LTD in Park Ridge to make your oral health a priority. 

Request an Appointment

We are taking new patients in Park Ridge and the surrounding Chicago area. We offer a wide range of dentistry services, including regular dental cleanings and check-ups, fillings, root canals and crowns.

Associations and Memberships

We’re proud to be affiliated with the following organizations:

ADA
ISDS
Chicago Dental Society
Seattle Study Club

What Our Patients Say

Read reviews from our patients

"Amedeo and Colonna are highly competent and trustworthy. I highly have been going there for many years and I highly recommend them!"

- Eric N

"My dental hygienist is very conscientious and thorough and explains things well. Dr. Colonna is also great & everyone is very upbeat & positive."

- Susan W

"Very caring Dentists. They are on top of the latest procedures to help fix your issues, and help make your teeth and mouth look the best."

- Dominic B