ORAL PATHOLOGY & BIOPSY FOR EARLY DETECTION
Oral pathology is the study of causes and effects of diseases that affect the mouth and surrounding structures. Diseases may involve the tongue, gums, joints, supporting bones, soft tissues, and teeth. While oral pathologists can identify and treat a range of oral health issues, the most critical type of oral disease they treat is oral cancer. If a suspicious area is identified, a biopsy can be performed and examined by a pathologist to determine a proper diagnosis. Once a diagnosis is determined, a treatment plan can be developed.
According to a report from the Oral Cancer Foundation, this year nearly 50,000 Americans will be diagnosed with oral cancer. Oral cancer can occur in the throat, pharynx, sinuses, floor of the mouth, cheeks, tongue, and lips. While early stages of cancer often do not present obvious signs, the following may be indications that oral cancer has developed:
- Difficulty chewing or swallowing
- Numbness in or around the mouth
- Chronic sores
- Persistent sore throat
- Persistent mouth pain
- Red or white patches
- Eroded areas, roughs spots, or lumps on the gums, lips, or other oral tissues
- Sensitivity of the neck, mouth, or face
As is the case with all types of cancer and any type of oral pathology, early detection is the best way to increase your likelihood of successful treatment. Oral cancer symptoms often do not occur until the cancer has progressed, which is why it is so important to schedule regular examinations. During routine visits, our staff will provide a comprehensive examination, that includes examining for indications of oral cancer. If a suspicious area is identified, a biopsy can be performed and examined by a pathologist to determine a proper diagnosis. Once a diagnosis is determined, a treatment plan can be developed.
At Coastal Jaw Surgery, every patient who walks through our door will receive VIP Treatment delivered by dedicated professionals who are leaders in their fields and ready to provide you with personalized care using the most cutting-edge dental technology available. For over three decades, we have proudly provided thousands of patients in the Tampa Bay area with dental implant and oral surgery services, including oral surgery, Same Day Teeth®, and periodontal services. To schedule an appointment, for a biopsy or to diagnose and treat an oral disease, contact us today at (800) NEW-LOOK.
Periodontology Reviews
Dr. Michael A. Pikos
Oral & Maxillofacial Surgeon
Dr. Michael A. Pikos is the CEO and Founder of Coastal Jaw Surgery, now celebrating its 40th anniversary. He is also the CEO and Founder of the world renowned Pikos Institute in Trinity, FL. He is recognized as a world authority on dental implant surgical reconstruction.
Dr. Kenneth L.
Anderson
Oral & Maxillofacial Surgeon
Dr. Nicole Hernandez
Oral & Maxillofacial Surgeon
Dr. Andrew
Lalli
Oral & Maxillofacial Surgeon
Dr. Othman
Rezki
Oral & Maxillofacial Surgeon
Dr. Lindsey
Pikos Rosati
Periodontist
Dr. Anthony M. Pikos
Periodontist
Dr. Bashar Adeinat
Periodontist
Dr. Philip J.
Hedger
Prosthodontist
BIOPSY PROCESS
Prior to performing crown lengthening, we will conduct a thorough examination of your oral health to determine any underlying conditions that need to be addressed, and if necessary, take a 3D cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) scan, which will provide us with 3D images of your bone, nerve pathways, soft tissues, and teeth, which allows us to make informed treatment decisions.
During the crown lengthening process, we will do everything we can to ensure that you experience minimal discomfort, which is why we offer varying levels of sedation, including oral sedatives, nitrous oxide, and intravenous (IV) sedation. Once you are sedated, the procedure will begin with the removal and shaping of your gum and bone tissue, using either a laser, scalpel, or both. If the crown lengthening procedure is being performed strictly for cosmetic purposes, the procedure will continue until enough natural tooth has been sufficiently exposed, after which sutures are placed and the healing process can begin. If crown lengthening is being performed as part of crown placement treatment, the procedure will continue until enough gums and bone have been exposed to properly allow for a fitted crown to be placed.
Pinellas Periodontics
at Clearwater
3003 Enterprise Rd E
Clearwater, FL 33759
(727) 799-4492
Coastal Jaw Surgery
at Palm Harbor
2711 Tampa Rd.
Palm Harbor, FL 34684
(727) 786-1631
Coastal Jaw Surgery
at Spring Hill
4372 Commercial Way
Spring Hill, FL 34606
(352) 596-6804
Coastal Jaw Surgery
at Tampa
11940 Sheldon Rd
Tampa, FL 33626
(727) 877-0011
Coastal Jaw Surgery
at Trinity
8845 Hawbuck St
Trinity, FL 34655
(727) 375-0469
COST OF BIOPSY
The cost of performing a biopsy and treating any underlying conditions will depend on a variety of factors, including what, if any, issue is identified, what procedures are performed as part of your treatment plan, and (if applicable) your dental insurance plan coverage. At Coastal Jaw Surgery, we are committed to providing you with high-quality oral care in a manner that is simple and efficient. To help meet your unique budget and needs, we offer the following financing options:
- Carecredit® Healthcare Financing (interest free financing for dental care)
- GreenSky® Patient Financing
- Lending Club Patient Financing
We also accept traditional insurance, and as courtesy to you, are happy to file and track your insurance claim and assist with insurance family plans. To help facilitate this process, please have your insurance information prepared at your appointment, including your insurance and identification card. To help you maximize your benefits, we are also happy to provide a written diagnostic report and X-rays to your insurance company if necessary.
Please note: Dental insurance only covers part of your total expenses and remaining out-of-pocket expenses must be paid following service. We accept cash, debit cards, and most major credit cards (MasterCard, VISA, Discover, American Express).
Contact Coastal Jaw Surgery
In addition to maintaining a private practice, Dr. Pikos also founded the Pikos Institute in 1990, a now globally recognized teaching organization that provides surgical and technology-based training for clinicians throughout the country to perform predictable, prosthetically driven implant dentistry. Whether you are having oral surgery, dental implants, or periodontal services, you can feel confident that you are receiving care from oral health professionals who are at the forefront of oral surgery education and leaders in the fields of periodontal services and implant dentistry.
To learn more about our clinic and services, or to schedule an appointment for a biopsy or to diagnose and treat an oral disease, contact us today at (800) 639-5665 or fill out an online form.
At Coastal Jaw Surgery, we are committed to improving your oral health, aesthetic appearance of your smile, and overall quality of life!