Why You Want Your Oral Surgeon to Check for Oddities in Your Mouth
Posted on 10/1/2024 by Young Jun DDS MD FACS
We all know the basics of oral care: brush twice a day, floss daily, and see your dentist for regular checkups. But did you know that your oral surgeon can play a vital role in your oral health, too? While most people associate oral surgeons with wisdom teeth removal, they also have the expertise to identify and address a wide range of "oddities" in your mouth. These oddities can be anything from unusual bumps and lumps to persistent pain or changes in your oral tissues.
What Can an Oral Surgeon Find?
An oral surgeon is trained to diagnose and treat a variety of oral conditions that might not be readily apparent to a general dentist. Here are a few examples:
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Oral cancer: Early detection is crucial for successful treatment of oral cancer. Oral surgeons are experts at recognizing the early signs of this disease and can perform biopsies to confirm a diagnosis.
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TMJ disorders: These disorders affect the joints and muscles that control jaw movement, causing pain, clicking, and difficulty chewing. Oral surgeons can diagnose TMJ disorders and recommend appropriate treatment options.
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Cysts and tumors: While some cysts and tumors are harmless, others can be cancerous or cause significant damage to the surrounding tissues. Oral surgeons can remove these growths and determine their nature through biopsies.
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Impacted teeth: These are teeth that are unable to erupt through the gums properly, often causing pain, infection, or damage to other teeth. Oral surgeons can surgically extract impacted teeth and restore proper function.
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Developmental abnormalities: Some people are born with abnormalities in their oral structures, such as cleft lip or palate. Oral surgeons can perform corrective surgeries to improve function and aesthetics.
Why See an Oral Surgeon?
While your general dentist plays a crucial role in maintaining your oral health, there are times when an oral surgeon's expertise is needed. Here's why you might want to consider seeing an oral surgeon:
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You have persistent pain or discomfort in your mouth.
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You notice any unusual lumps, bumps, or changes in the tissues of your mouth.
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You have difficulty chewing or opening your mouth.
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You have a history of oral cancer or precancerous lesions.
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You need a complex dental procedure, such as an implant placement or bone grafting.
Don't Delay, Get Checked!
Ignoring oddities in your mouth can have serious consequences. Early detection and treatment are key to managing many oral conditions effectively. Don't hesitate to schedule an appointment with an oral surgeon if you have any concerns. They will conduct a thorough examination and discuss treatment options with you. Remember, your oral health is an integral part of your overall well-being, so taking an active role in maintaining it is crucial.
Young Jun DDS MD FACS, 601 E. Yorba Linda Blvd. #9, Placentia, CA 92870 | (657) 216-1617 | placentiaoralsurgery.com | 12/26/2024 | Key Phrases: dental implants Placentia CA |
We all know the basics of oral care: brush twice a day, floss daily, and see your dentist for regular checkups. But did you know that your oral surgeon can play a vital role in your oral health, too? While most people associate oral surgeons with wisdom teeth removal, they also have the expertise to identify and address a wide range of "oddities" in your mouth. These oddities can be anything from unusual bumps and lumps to persistent pain or changes in your oral tissues.