Oral pathology focuses on the diagnosis and management of diseases affecting the mouth, jaws, and surrounding structures. At Yi-Tsu Cheng, D.D.S. & Associates in Chamblee, GA, our team identifies oral abnormalities early so treatment can begin promptly.
Many oral conditions, from canker sores and infections to more serious concerns like precancerous lesions, begin with subtle changes in the soft tissues of the mouth. Oral pathology services ensure these changes are identified, evaluated, and managed appropriately.
Our practice performs oral biopsies and works closely with pathology laboratories to provide accurate diagnoses. With a board-certified oral and maxillofacial surgeon on staff, patients who need surgical evaluation or treatment can receive care without being referred to another office.
Routine oral cancer screenings are part of every dental exam at our practice. Early detection of oral diseases significantly improves treatment outcomes, which is why we recommend regular dental visits for patients in Chamblee, Brookhaven, and the greater Atlanta area.
Oral pathology services we provide
- Oral cancer screenings during routine exams
- Biopsy of suspicious oral lesions or growths
- Diagnosis of persistent mouth sores, white patches, or tissue changes
- Evaluation of jaw cysts and bone abnormalities
- In-house oral surgeon for seamless surgical follow-up
What to expect
- A visual and tactile examination of the oral tissues during your regular visit
- If an abnormality is found, a discussion of whether observation or biopsy is recommended
- A simple biopsy procedure performed with local anesthesia, if needed
- Results reviewed with you and a clear follow-up plan provided
Who is a good candidate?
Any patient with persistent oral sores, unexplained lumps, white or red patches, or tissue changes that do not heal within two weeks should be evaluated. Patients with risk factors such as tobacco use or a history of oral cancer benefit from more frequent screenings.
Frequently asked questions
A dentist may refer you when an oral lesion, growth, or tissue change needs laboratory analysis to determine whether it is benign, precancerous, or requires treatment. At our practice, we can perform biopsies in-house without an outside referral.
They are related but distinct specialties. An oral pathologist focuses on diagnosing diseases through tissue analysis, while an oral surgeon performs surgical procedures. Our practice has both capabilities, so diagnosis and treatment happen in one office.
Treatments depend on the diagnosis and may include monitoring, medication, surgical removal of lesions, or referral to an oncologist for more serious conditions. Many findings are benign and require only observation.
The area is numbed with local anesthesia before the biopsy, so most patients feel only mild pressure. Any post-procedure discomfort is usually brief and manageable with over-the-counter pain relief.
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