Dr. Angela Leung uses oral pathology to help diagnose disease and develop treatments tailored to your individual needs. With oral pathology, we can determine the exact type of disease and which type of treatment will be most effective in combating it and helping you regain your health and smile. Call us at 415-681-2697 to learn more about oral pathology in South San Francisco, California, and schedule an appointment with our endodontist.
Oral pathology is the study of diseases that affect the oral cavity. It is a branch of dentistry that diagnoses and treats conditions affecting the mouth, teeth and gums. Early detection and treatment of oral pathology is essential for maintaining good oral health.
Oral pathology can be divided into three main categories: dental caries (tooth decay), periodontal disease (gum disease) and oral cancer.
1. Dental caries (dental cavities) is the most common type of oral pathology. It is caused by the build-up of plaque on the teeth, which leads to tooth decay. Plaque is a sticky film of bacteria that forms on the teeth and gums. If plaque is not removed, it can harden into tartar, which is more difficult to remove. Tartar can cause the gums to become inflamed and bleed. If left untreated, dental caries can lead to tooth loss.
2. Periodontal disease is another common type of oral pathology. It is caused by the build-up of plaque on the teeth and gums. Plaque can harden into tartar, which can inflame the gums and lead to periodontitis (gum disease). Periodontitis is a serious condition that can damage the bones and tissues that support the teeth. If left untreated, it can lead to tooth loss.
3. Oral cancer is the most serious type of oral pathology. It affects the lips, tongue, throat and gums. Oral cancer can be deadly if it is not detected early and treated promptly. Smoking and excessive alcohol consumption are the leading risk factors for oral cancer.
Learn more about oral pathology by calling our office today for an appointment.