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
Dr. Morcos was great. I have been putting off having my wisdom teeth out for years, if you have to have dental work done, this is the place to do it. Staff were pleasant and kind. They spoke well of each other and the overall tone of the office was polite and peaceful.
I recently had my wisdom teeth removed at Latham Oral Surgery – Capital District Oral Surgeons, & I can’t recommend them highly enough! From the moment I walked in, the staff was welcoming and made me feel at ease. The waiting area was comfortable and calming, which helped reduce my pre-surgery nerves. The Team of Nurses & the Dentist himself were incredibly professional and knowledgeable. They took the time to explain the procedure thoroughly, answering all my questions with patience and clarity. I appreciated their transparency about what to expect during and after the surgery. They allowed me to play my own music to calm down & even held my very adult hand as I was receiving an IV. Unfortunately I suck at remembering names; but the nurse with the white hair (G.O.A.T), & the nurse with the Black hair, Piercings, & and cool ass designs on her teeth (another G.O.A.T) are friggin amazing at their jobs and both deserve raises for real; whatever they're making... DOUBLE IT!! Even the Nurse with the purple hair was a freaking sweet heart and was just a pleasure to work with. The surgery itself was a breeze! The staff was attentive and made sure I was comfortable throughout the process. I felt well cared for, and the procedure was quick and efficient. Post-surgery, the follow-up instructions were clear, and I experienced minimal discomfort thanks to their effective pain management recommendations. Overall, my experience at this dentist was outstanding. They turned what could have been a stressful situation into a smooth and positive one. I’m grateful for their excellent care and would highly recommend them to anyone needing dental work. Five stars all the way! (Honestly if rate them anything under a 4 star.... You're the problem. Do some Self Reflection and find God.)
My dentist referred me to this excellent group of professionals. If you are anxious about going to the dentist this is the place to be.. professional and compassionate...many thanks to Dr. Delgado and the staff...
Professional and compassionate staff. The surgeon was thorough in his explanation of the procedure.
Dr. Miron and his staff were great! Highly recommend! Mary Cordato
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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.