Overview
When signs or symptoms of oral cancer or other oral pathologies are detected, your dentist may refer you to an oral and maxillofacial specialist for further evaluation. Oral pathology is the area of dentistry that focuses on the diagnosis, treatment, and management of abnormalities found in or around the mouth and in the oropharyngeal, head, and neck regions. These conditions may include precancerous and cancerous lesions, and abnormal growths, among other concerns. If mouth cancer and other pathologies are detected early, they can often be treated and well-managed. At Capital District Oral & Maxillofacial Surgeons, Drs. Stephen DeMarco, Diego Miron, and Luis Delgado offer experienced, specialized care in diagnosing oral cancer and other concerns through biopsy procedures. Please schedule an oral pathology exam with our board-certified oral surgeons in Albany, NY if you or a loved one has a suspicious mouth sore, abnormal lesion, or other signs of oral cancer.
Best Candidates
Oral cancer can appear anywhere in or around the mouth, including on the tongue, lips, cheeks, gums, salivary glands, palate, throat, and oropharyngeal area. Any suspicious or abnormal areas in the mouth, head, or neck tissues that arise or persist should be evaluated by a dental professional promptly. Some of the most common signs and symptoms of oral cancer in Albany, NY patients include:
- Raised or rough patches of skin
- Red, white, or other discolored lesions (flat or raised)
- Bumps, lesions, or nodules
- Mouth sores that bleed or do not heal
- Lumps or masses in the head or neck areas
- Trouble with swallowing
- A persistent sore throat or hoarseness
It is important to understand that while pain is not always a symptom of pathology, any individual who experiences unexplained discomfort in these areas could be at risk for mouth, head, or neck cancers. Other risk factors include a history of cancer, a genetic predisposition, poor oral or general health, excessive alcohol consumption, tobacco use (all forms), UV exposure, and the human papillomavirus (HPV).
What to Expect
During your oral pathology exam and evaluation at Capital District Oral & Maxillofacial Surgeons, one of our specialists will evaluate the area and may take advanced 3D CT scans to screen for underlying concerns. A biopsy (tissue sampling) may also be performed to collect cells within the suspicious area for pathological testing. Sutures may be placed, depending on the depth and extent of the tissue removal. Once the results of the biopsy are in, our surgeons will let you know if an additional evaluation or treatment, such as further excision of the affected tissues, is needed. Our oral surgeons will also collaborate closely with your medical doctor, your referring dentist, or other specialists to help make certain you get the best possible care for your health needs.
Capital District Oral & Maxillofacial Surgeons Reviews
I highly recommend Dr Delgado and team (with a special shout out to Christina and Tiffany) at this location. I had an oral surgery procedure that ended up having some complications during recovery, but the way they handled it was incredible. They were responsive, thorough, and clearly dedicated to making sure I was okay. They addressed the issue promptly and stayed with me until everything was fully resolved. It is rare to find a surgeon who is not only technically skilled but also so genuinely caring when you’re going through a tough time. I felt supported and in the best hands possible throughout the entire process. Please do not think twice about Capital District Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons you will be in great hands!!!
Getting my 4 impacted wisdom teeth removed was my biggest fear for YEARS. Dr Delgado and his entire team were knowledgeable, helpful and supportive from the consultation to the date of my surgery as well as afterwards curing recovery! I would recommend this office to anyone who is apprehensive or afraid of getting their wisdom teeth removed! My surgery was easy, quick and I didn’t feel much pain in my recovery period!
Dr. Dermody was amazing! I had two teeth extracted under sedation, and the entire process was so smooth. I experienced no pain at all after the surgery and didn’t even need to take any medication. I just let it heal naturally. Thank you so much for such a great experience!
I had an especially traumatic experience in a dental chair 30 yrs ago, making it nearly impossible for me to even walk into a dental office without shaking and crying, since. I'm so thankful to have found this office, where the entire staff listened to my fears, patiently talked me through them, and successfully extracted/grafted my tooth (iv sedation). I couldn't believe how calm I was, going back for my re-check appointment, and I actually look forward to completing the implant process.
Post op day one and feeling great! Experienced no pain, medication sent on time to pharmacy.Pricing is the best compared to other places. I was quoted $2700 somewhere else, this place charged me $1060 for the same job and was able to get me booked in a week.All staff here are helpful, friendly and professional. Highly recommend this place, don’t let other poor reviews prevent you from getting your dental health taken care of. Thank you Dr. Miron and your staff.
309
Total Reviews
4.9
Average Rating
Recovery
If a biopsy or another type of oral pathology treatment is performed, our clinical team will provide you with specific instructions on how to care for the area as it heals. This may involve avoiding certain types of foods, physical activities, and lifestyle habits while the area recovers. We will also show you how to conduct periodic oral cancer screenings by yourself at home to help you detect any other abnormalities that may arise in the future. Our Albany, NY oral surgery specialists can help you review your options for follow-up care, if necessary, and may recommend having routine oral pathology exams with our team.
Insurance Coverage
Oral pathology exams and biopsies may be covered, at least in part, by a number of insurance plans. One of our insurance coordinators will be happy to review your policy and let you know of any potential personal costs for your care. Capital District Oral & Maxillofacial Surgeons is pleased to accept several convenient payment options, including third-party healthcare financing through CareCredit®.
Oral Cancer Care
Though not all tissue irregularities in the mouth, head, and neck area are indicative of oral pathology, it is important to have an oral cancer exam as soon as possible if any abnormality is present. Our oral surgeons are a trusted source for oral pathology in the Albany, NY area and routinely perform biopsies for patients referred by their general dentists or physicians. To arrange for an oral cancer exam or biopsy, please contact Capital District Oral & Maxillofacial Surgeons today.