An introduction to oral pathology services in 3 key facts

Other dentists often turn to our specialists, Drs. Mark A. Spinazze, Russell P. Spinazze, and Eliza P. Drobny, when they find suspicious changes in their patients’ mouths. These changes may warrant a biopsy. This service plays an important role in detecting oral cancer of the mouth early and accurately. Due to the nature of oral cancer, it is a privilege that the dental community in Mount Prospect, Bartlett, Elk Grove Village, and Chicago trusts their patients to Oral, Maxillofacial & Implant Surgery. This fact provides peace of mind to our neighbors searching for “pathology services near me in northeast Illinois.” We know you may have concerns about your mouth, and want to take the mystery out of the process of finding a specialist who is equipped to potentially rule out more serious conditions. We also welcome the opportunity to educate our broader community on pathology services available at our four area offices, courtesy of the following three facts. 

1 – Oral pathology, defined 

Pathologies are often associated with cancers. However, not all pathologies are cancerous. Pathology, by definition, refers to any deviation from the norm. This could include benign cysts and tumors (which may also be benign or non-cancerous). As oral and maxillofacial surgeons, Drs. Mark and Russell Spinazze and Dr. Drobny are considered experts in detecting and treating pathologies of the mouth and the head and neck. They have acquired additional and focused training and experience beyond dental school in diagnosing and effectively treating these anomalies in their many forms. 

2 – How pathologies manifest

Dentists often refer their patients to us when, during routine exams, they come across potentially concerning changes. It is important to remember that the source of many of these changes is typically harmless. However, due to the potential risk of serious conditions like pre-cancers and cancerous lesions, they must be examined and diagnosed properly and promptly. Some of the changes or anomalies that we regularly evaluate include: 

• Leukoplakia and erythroplakia, which are white and red patches on oral tissues, respectively
• Sores or ulcers that never seem to heal and may bleed easily 
• Abnormally thick or swollen tissue
• Masses, lumps, and bumps that may be felt by touch (when palpating or examining the areas by hand during an exam)
• The presence of swelling on the lymph nodes in the neck 

We can also assess what may be at the root of changes that are not visible or felt by touch. These include concerns that you may express to your dentist, such as changes in sensation, like unexplained numbness. It’s also important to always share with your dentist if you have had a frequent sore throat, persistent hoarseness, and problems with swallowing or chewing. 

3 – Biopsy informs appropriate “next steps”

The biopsy service determines the true nature of the changes described above and other anomalies not listed here. It is a vital diagnostic tool, and all diagnostic tools help to inform effective interventions and treatments (as necessary). By definition, biopsy is a procedure whereby a small bit of suspicious tissue is removed for further study/analysis. In most cases, biopsies are performed with a local numbing anesthetic. The biopsied area may be sutured, and the process usually only takes 15 minutes. We will also provide instructions for how to care for the site afterward, which generally involves drinking lots of fluids, eating soft foods, rinsing with warm saltwater or prescription mouth rinse, and limiting exercise initially. We will contact you to discuss results as soon as possible. 

Even if these anomalies are not cancerous, they may still require attention and even removal. Some changes, like leukoplakia, are associated with an increased risk of developing into cancers. So, these lesions may require prompt care and ongoing management. Additionally, conditions like cysts can damage other parts of the mouth and may need to be surgically removed. Do not suffer with your concerns in silence. Contact your experts in oral pathology diagnosis and treatment at Oral, Maxillofacial & Implant Surgery. To speak with a member of our team and to schedule an appointment, call one of our four offices in Chicago, IL (773) 736-3300, Mt Prospect (847) 255-7080, Bartlett (630) 289-5002, or Elk Grove Village (847) 593-0535.

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