Dental Pathology

Dental pathology is a specialized field of pathology that focuses on the diagnosis and management of diseases affecting the oral and maxillofacial region. This includes the teeth, gums, jawbone, salivary glands, and other related tissues.

Dental pathology plays a crucial role in the diagnosis and management of many oral and maxillofacial conditions, including:

1. Oral cancer: Dental pathologists are trained to recognize the signs and symptoms of oral cancer and can perform biopsies to confirm a diagnosis.
2. Periodontal disease: Dental pathologists can help diagnose and manage gum disease, which is a common condition that affects the tissues surrounding the teeth.
3. Salivary gland disorders: Dental pathologists can help diagnose and manage conditions that affect the salivary glands, such as Sjogren’s syndrome, a condition that causes dry mouth.
4. Jawbone disorders: Dental pathologists can help diagnose and manage conditions that affect the jawbone, such as osteomyelitis, a bacterial infection of the bone.

Dental pathologists use a variety of techniques to diagnose oral and maxillofacial conditions, including biopsy, microscopy, and molecular testing. They work closely with dentists and other healthcare professionals to provide accurate diagnoses and treatment recommendations.

In addition to diagnosing and managing diseases, dental pathologists also play a role in oral health research, education, and training. They help to advance the understanding of oral and maxillofacial diseases and develop new treatments and therapies to improve patient outcomes.