What is Oral Pathology
Your mouth is lined with a special type of skin (mucosa) that is typically smooth and coral-pink.
Oral pathology is the medical specialty that studies the causes and effects of diseases affecting this area.
As a Board-Certified Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon, Dr. Kroum Dimitrov is trained to look beyond the teeth. We evaluate the soft tissues, salivary glands, and the underlying jawbone to diagnose conditions that range from simple cysts to complex tumors. Our goal is early intervention – identifying a problem before it affects your long-term health or facial structure.
When to Schedule an Evaluation
The “Golden Rule” of oral pathology is the 14-day window. If you notice a change in your mouth that does not heal or resolve on its own within two weeks, it requires a professional examination.
The inside of the mouth is normally lined with a special type of skin (mucosa) that is smooth and coral pink in color. Any alteration in this appearance could be a warning sign for a pathological process. The most serious of these is oral cancer.
The following can be signs at the beginning of a pathological process or cancerous growth:
- Reddish patches (erythroplasia) or whitish patches (leukoplakia) in the mouth
- A sore that fails to heal and bleeds easily
- A lump or thickening on the skin lining the inside of the mouth
- Chronic sore throat or hoarseness and/or difficulty in chewing or swallowing
These changes can be detected on the lips, cheeks, palate, and gum tissue around the teeth, tongue, face, and/or neck. Pain does not always occur with pathology, and curiously, is not often associated with oral cancer. However, any patient with facial and/or oral pain without an obvious cause or reason may also be at risk for oral cancer.
We would recommend performing an oral cancer self-examination monthly. Remember that your mouth is one of your body’s most important warning systems. Do not ignore suspicious lumps or sores. Please contact us so we can assist you with any questions or concerns.
Why Choose Dr. Dimitrov
Elite Training: Earned his DMD from the University of Connecticut and completed residency at the University of Miami/Jackson Memorial Hospital, where he served as Chief Resident.
Proven Leadership: Awarded the prestigious Professor’s Cup for excellence in surgery, patient care, and academic achievement.
Meet Dr.Kroum Dimitrov
