Birmingham, AL's Leading Oral Pathology Services

Diseases of the mouth can have many causes and many effects, from something as serious as oral cancer to something benign, like an aphthous ulcer. Our mouths are lined with a special kind of tissue called mucosa, and often, infections appear first as irregularities here. While many things can be treated quickly and effectively, it’s crucial to have them properly examined and diagnosed for early intervention and treatment.

Oral pathologies, including oral cancer, have wide-ranging symptoms, so it’s important not to ignore anything new or unusual, even if it isn’t painful. If you’ve experienced any abnormal changes in the soft tissues of your mouth—including the palate, lips, gums, cheeks, or tongue—they could be a warning sign.

At Gonzalez & Maniscalco, we have a multitude of diagnostic methods to investigate suspicious lesions, lumps, or sores in the mouth. From advanced x-ray technology to our use of great, local pathologists, we’re here to put your mind at ease and get you the treatment you need.

What to Expect from an Oral Pathology Appointment

Drs. Gonzalez and Maniscalco offer pathology consultations for patients who are concerned about any symptoms or signs of oral disease, including:

Reddish or whitish patches in the mouth

Sores that won’t heal, that bleed easily, or that heal and come back repeatedly

New growths, lumps, or hardening of the skin inside the mouth

Difficulty swallowing or chewing

Loose teeth

If you have any of these symptoms for more than two weeks, schedule a consultation with us today. We use the latest diagnostic technologies to screen for oral cancer and other pathologies such as autoimmune diseases, salivary gland disease, herpes simplex virus, and more. Early detection and treatment is crucial—so don’t wait to set up your appointment today.

Helpful Oral Surgery Links

Surgical Procedures

Browse our full list of oral surgery services we offer here at Gonzalez & Maniscalco Oral Surgery and Implant Center in Birmingham, AL.

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Patient Forms

If you're new to our practice, we recommend filling out your new patient forms online for fast and convenient service when you arrive.

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Surgical Instructions

If you have recently had a procedure here at our office, you can find at-home aftercare instructions online at your convenience.

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Oral Disease FAQs

Are oral lesions serious?

Most oral lesions are benign, meaning they aren't cancerous and are not likely ever to become cancerous. Many are a result of some kind of trauma to the mouth. However, precancerous and cancerous oral lesions do happen—and they are life-threatening. cancerous and precancerous lesions are sometimes painful, and sometimes not. Don't let lack of pain keep you from getting examined.

That's why we recommend maintaining your regular dental checkups, when your dentist will check for any suspicious lumps or sores. You can also perform monthly oral cancer screenings at home: look at all parts of your mouth closely, including the roof of your mouth, the underside of your tongue, the inside of your lips, and your gums.

What are the signs of mouth cancer?

Oral cancers can start out looking or feeling pretty normal, like a reddish patch on the lining of your mouth or underside of your tongue. But if red or white patches don't disappear after about two weeks, if you have unexplained sores that bleed, or have developed any new lumps in your cheeks, tongue, lips, or roof of your mouth, be sure to go get a screening as soon as possible.

Left untreated, oral cancers can quickly spread to other parts of your body, including the throat, head, neck, and lymph nodes.

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