Treating Diseases of the Jaw
As the mouth and jaw is a region where changes can be easily seen, growth abnormalities
and diseases of the jaw are often visible and can be detected in their early stages including
growth abnormalities, lesions and oral cancer.
Importance in treating Diseases of the Jaw
The oral mucosa is the mucous membrane of the mouth and is divided into three sectors.
The tongue, hard palate and attached gingiva, taste buds and remainder of the oral
cavity. Detection of growth abnormalities including cysts and diseases of the jaw such as
lesions, ‘hairy tongue’ (an elongation of the taste buds), ankyloglossia (decreased tongue
mobility), and oral cancers is highly important as they can lead to other more serious health
problems, cause pain and discomfort and in the case lead to potential fatality. Treatment
options can vary and are often referred to Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons.
Detecting Diseases of the Jaw
Various diseases of the jaw, oral mucosa and growth abnormalities are often easily identified
as they are visible upon a visual examination. Symptoms of a potential problem can include:
- White or red patches of oral tissues
- A sore that fails to heal and bleeds easily or excessively
- Chronic sore throat or hoarseness
- Difficulty in chewing or swallowing
- Mass or lump in the neck region
- An abnormal lump in the oral mucosal region, maxillofacial region, jaw or neck
- Thickening of the tissues of the mouth
- Pain or difficulty when swallowing or chewing
- Recurrent pain in the oral mucosal region, maxillofacial region, jaw or neck
If you are suffering from any of these symptoms we advise you contact your doctor or dentist
do discuss the issue further.
What’s involved?
Depending on the nature of the issue, severity and diagnosis treatment options can vary.
Certain superficial diseases or infection (such as cold sores, allergic reaction, etc..) can often
be treated through the application of topical creams or antibiotics. However for more severe
problems such as oral cancer and growth abnormalities or lumps your treatment may be
conducted by a Maxillofacial or Oral Surgeon.
In performing an examination to detect any potential problems your dentist will use a bright
light and a mirror and may:
- Remove any dentures
- Look and feel the front of the gums and lips
- Inspect the roof of the mouth
- Inspect the inside of the cheeks
- Inspect all surfaces of the tongue and throat
- Feel for enlarged glands on the neck and lower jaw
Following treatment your health practitioner will advise you on post-treatment care, including
prescription for further antibiotics, pain medication or specific care instructions after surgery.