What Are Oral Diseases and Pathologies?

Oral diseases refer to a broad category of conditions that affect the soft tissues, bone, and other structures in the mouth or jaw. Some are benign (non-cancerous), while others may require immediate intervention or biopsy to rule out malignancy.

Common oral pathologies and infections we treat include:

• White or red patches in the mouth
• Persistent ulcers or mouth sores
• Painful lumps or swellings
• Oral cysts and tumors
• Fungal infections (e.g., candidiasis)
• Jaw infections or abscesses
• Chronic dental infections
• Salivary gland issues
• Tissue changes after trauma or surgery
• Lesions that don’t heal

Signs You May Need an Oral Pathology Evaluation

Contact an oral and maxillofacial surgeon near you if you notice:

• A mouth sore that hasn’t healed in over 14 days
• Swelling, lump, or thickening in your cheek, jaw, or gum
• Persistent hoarseness, sore throat, or difficulty swallowing
• Bleeding from the gums, tongue, or roof of mouth
• Loose teeth without known cause
• Pain when chewing or opening the jaw
• Bad taste or discharge from the gums

Early evaluation is critical. Many oral conditions are treatable — but if left untreated, they can spread or become more difficult to manage.

Diagnostic Process

1. Visual and Physical Exam

Your surgeon will examine your mouth, jaw, and neck for any abnormalities. This includes checking soft tissues, glands, and lymph nodes.

2. Imaging

Digital X-rays or 3D CBCT scans may be taken to evaluate underlying bone structures and detect hidden infections, cysts, or lesions.

3. Biopsy (If Indicated)

If a lesion looks suspicious or does not resolve on its own, a biopsy may be recommended. This involves removing a small tissue sample for analysis. Our surgeons perform incisional or excisional biopsies in-office under local or IV sedation.

Biopsy results help confirm whether a growth is benign, pre-cancerous, or malignant — enabling the right course of treatment.

Common Oral Infections We Treat

Infections in the mouth or jaw may arise from untreated decay, impacted teeth, trauma, or compromised immune systems. Our surgical team manages:

• Dental abscesses
• Pericoronitis (infection around wisdom teeth)
• Osteomyelitis (bone infection)
• Post-extraction infections
• Sinus-related oral infections
• Facial cellulitis

Many of these conditions require surgical drainage, tooth removal, or antibiotic therapy — sometimes in coordination with your general dentist or physician.

If you're suffering from severe pain, swelling, or fever, we prioritize scheduling for emergency oral surgery.

When to See an Oral Surgeon vs. a General Dentist

While general dentists can identify many oral health issues, oral and maxillofacial surgeons are trained to manage more complex or high-risk conditions. You should see an oral surgeon in Redondo Beach or nearby if:

• You’ve been referred for a biopsy or lesion removal
• An infection is causing swelling or difficulty opening your mouth
• You have a recurring or unexplained sore
• A cyst, tumor, or bone abnormality has been identified
• You suspect oral cancer or precancerous changes

Advanced Pain & Healing Support

We offer advanced treatments like:

• Exparel for long-lasting, non-opioid pain control
• L-PRF Platelet Therapy to accelerate healing after surgical lesion removal

These tools help reduce post-surgical discomfort and speed recovery.