Earlier, the terms “medically complex” and “underlying medical conditions” were mentioned. Essentially, this means that patients who visit an oral medicine specialist may have one or more of the following medical issues:

• Diseases involving the mouth lining, lips, and oral mucous membranes
• Disorders such as dry mouth
• Salivary gland diseases
• Halitosis (bad breath)
• Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders
• Jaw muscle conditions
• Oral lesions
• Sjögren’s syndrome
• Oral cancer

In addition to the conditions listed above, patients in need of oral medicine may be experiencing other soft-tissue inflammatory problems, metabolic and systemic health conditions, and neuropathic orofacial pain conditions. An oral medicine doctor can help differentiate and identify a condition based on individual symptoms and diagnostic results.

The central services provided by an oral medicine doctor are to help diagnose and treat complex oral and maxillofacial conditions. Many oral medicine therapeutic methods are non-surgical. An oral medicine doctor will generally perform and provide:

• Diagnostic biopsies
• Therapeutic injections
• Topical and oral medications
• Minor surgical procedures and excisions

Sometimes oral medicine doctors will also assist in operating room procedures and surgeries.

Serious systemic diseases often affect the oral cavity. Occasionally, that is the first presentation of a serious bodily condition before it becomes apparent to a physician. Oral medicine doctors are often the first to diagnose a health problem where a delay in diagnosis could have serious consequences.

With this unique knowledge base that covers both dentistry and medicine, oral medicine doctors use their expertise to manage oral diseases. By helping to manage these conditions, oral medicine doctors improve the quality of life of many patients who otherwise would go undiagnosed, misdiagnosed, or poorly treated.

If you’ve been experiencing pain and discomfort in the jaw, teeth, face, or mouth and have been unable to find relief, an oral medicine specialist can help. At Penn Dental Family Practice, we have some of the most highly regarded specialists in the area, in addition to some of the most advanced technology and approaches in dentistry.

We will also work to help you find an affordable solution to your dental care. Don’t let fear or anxiety prevent you from seeking the help you need and deserve. Make an appointment with a Penn Dental Family Practice specialist today or call us any time at 215-898-PDFP (7337).