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
Yesterday I visited the office for the final procedure of my implant, "journey." I arrived early, took a seat in the waiting area and my name was called almost immediately. I was escorted to the procedure room by a bright, cheerful nurse, who explained what would be happening this visit. I mentioned that I am an anxious person and I was calmed by their understanding of my anxiety, Their confidence assured me that this procedure would get done, that day. As a person who has struggled with anxiety and suffered from crippling panic attacks for decades, it was significant to feel that confidence from them. I had a very real concern that I would have a panic attack which would prevent the completion of the procedure that visit. As I reclined in the procedure room a second nurse, just as warm and upbeat as the first, entered the room, as well as the Doctor, and the procedure commenced. I can only estimate, heaven knows I'm no oral surgeon, that roughly 90% through the procedure, I felt my anxiety take hold and take over my body. Panic attacks are pretty paralyzing by nature and mine happen to be extremely physical. First I feel light headed, then all color leaves my face, then I break out in a full body sweat, followed by visible chills. The instant the color left my face, the doctor and nurses took action. The procedure was stopped. I was feeling helpless, scared, embarrassed, and guilty that I was taking time from these individuals and waiting patients. Then the swift, expert caregiving began. An ice pack was applied to the back of my neck, then another was applied to my forehead. (it's worth mentioning, an ice pack without a hand to hold it rarely stays. So I was single handedly monopolizing one nurse, who was kind enough to hold the ice pack against my head) I was given constant compassionate reassurance by the nurses and doctor that everything was alright. I was gently instructed to breathe slowly through my nose. My condition was not improving significantly, so a nurse handed me a cup of apple juice and encouraged me to sip. Slowly I sat up and not long after I felt my physically symptomatic panic take over, again. I gave only the slightest indication I was going down-hill and one of the two nurses reclined the chair I was in again. An I.V. was quickly and skillfully placed and fluids were administered. At this point I had two ice packs (one nurses' hand), oxygen and an I.V. A precarious position to be in for an individual deep into a panic attack. Some time passed and I was soothed by the cool collected casual conversation of the two attending nurses. The doctor said that he only had one quick thing to do before my procedure was completed, and I was happy to get that quick step over and done right then. The doctor took maybe 30 seconds to complete that last step and then that was done. Unfortunately, my anxiety was not. There was nothing more that could be done for my body to improve my condition. I needed something that cannot be packaged or sterilized, something that brings comfort to the soul... and that something was being in the presence of two of the most warm, caring, down to earth, hilarious, professional women I've ever had the pleasure of almost losing consciousness around. Brittany and Kaylee were a dream. Their lighthearted conversation distracted my anxious brain and their attentiveness to my condition made me feel safe. At no point did I feel rushed or that I was an inconvenience of any kind, something that, sadly, is incredibly rare in a medical practice. These two women are incredible, compassionate caregivers. They are a joy to be around. True treasures. I cannot possibly express my gratitude for the care and reassurance that I received from Brittany and Kaylee, but I thought I'd do my best to try.
Absolutely 100% ! A plus. 4.0. On every level. Dr. Diego Miron and associate professionals and complete Staff! And a big thank you for my Dentist Dr Walsh #1 for the referral!
The entire experience was excellent, all staff and Dr Delgado were the most professional I've ever met. They are the best!
Very friendly staff. Strongly recommended 👍👍👍
I’m incredibly thankful for Dr. Miron and his team for taking me in. I was in a lot of pain due to my wisdom teeth and they removed them that week. Great communication and professionalism, and they were very kind. Hope to be back to get further work done.
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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.