Oral Pathology and Biopsies in Albany, NY

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, Timothy Adams, 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.

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).

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.

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.

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®.

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.