When should you schedule an oral examination?

What Does the Science of Stomatology Cover?

Stomatology is the dental specialty that focuses on the diagnosis, treatment, and prognosis of diseases affecting the oral mucosa, salivary glands, and jawbones. A stomatologist is the most qualified professional for diagnosing and treating oral conditions.

What Is the Process of an Oral Examination?

Patients typically seek an oral examination for preventive checks or when they notice a lesion in their mouth. Sometimes, a stomatological evaluation is requested by other specialists, such as a dentist.

1. Patient History: A comprehensive medical history is taken, focusing on the patient’s general health, any oral issues, medications, allergies, and lifestyle factors like smoking and alcohol consumption.
2. Clinical Examination: This involves inspection and palpation of the oral structures (lips, cheeks, tongue, floor of the mouth, palate, and gums). Palpation of the salivary glands and nearby lymph nodes is also performed. Based on the clinical picture, a preliminary diagnosis is formed.
3. Further Testing: Additional laboratory or radiological tests may be needed for a definitive diagnosis. This can include biopsies or cytological smears. A biopsy does not necessarily indicate malignancy; it is a common tool for diagnosis.

What Diseases Does Stomatology Address?

Diseases of the oral cavity can be specific to this area or may signal systemic conditions. Conditions related to stomatology include:

• Oral cancer and precancerous lesions (related to smoking, alcohol, HPV, etc.)
• Tumors and nodules
• Ulcers and erosions
• Intraosseous lesions
• Pigmented and vascular lesions
• Oral burning sensation
• Halitosis (bad breath)
• Dry mouth
• Autoimmune and dermatoses conditions
• Infections (HPV, fungal infections, etc.)
• Allergies
• Nutritional deficiencies
• Genetic syndromes, etc.

What Is the Treatment for Oral Diseases?

Treatment depends on the specific disease and may be pharmacological or surgical (e.g., surgical removal of lesions or laser treatment). Often, patient monitoring is required, and collaboration with other specialists, such as oral surgeons, dermatologists, rheumatologists, and infectious disease experts, may be necessary.

How Often Should an Oral Examination Be Conducted?

An oral examination is recommended annually, especially for high-risk patients (e.g., smokers, heavy alcohol consumers, individuals infected with HPV). After a definitive diagnosis, more frequent monitoring may be necessary.

How Can I Determine If I Have an Oral Lesion?

The most qualified professional to evaluate an oral lesion is a stomatologist. However, dentists can identify oral abnormalities and refer patients to specialists. Self-examination is also encouraged; patients should periodically check their mouths after brushing their teeth to detect any unusual changes, which can indicate potential lesions, and consult a stomatologist if necessary.

Article and guidelines by the Stomatologist at the ODONTAIRIKON KENTRO ATHINON clinic.