Oral diseases represent a significant challenge for dentists: it is not just a matter of treating caries or gingivitis, but of recognising a wide range of conditions that can have serious impacts on patients' general health. Oral diseases, in fact, can range from common, benign conditions to serious conditions that require complex interventions.
This article provides an overview of the different oral cavity diseases, highlighting causes, symptoms, risk factors and the importance of early diagnosis, with the aim of improving treatment.
Summary
Oral cavity diseases
As seen in detail in the previous article of 13 November 2024 on the Pathology and the Oral Pathologist,oral pathology deals with the study, diagnosis and treatment of diseases affecting the oral cavity, jaw and related structures, including the salivary glands and mucous membranes.
This discipline focuses on the identification, analysis and treatment of a wide range of oral diseases that occur in different forms: from common infections and inflammations to autoimmune and neoplastic diseases.
Oral diseases can have a significant impact on a patient's overall health. That is why it is important to recognise them and implement a treatment plan targeted to the problem at hand. Let's take a look at the main types of oral diseases and their distinguishing features.
Benign lesions
Benign lesions include cysts, granulomas and fibromas. Although they are not cancerous, they require precise diagnosis to avoid complications. A common example is traumatic fibroma, often caused by accidental bites to the oral mucosa.
Malignant lesions
Among malignant lesions, squamous cell carcinoma is the most common type of oral cancer. Early diagnosis is crucial to improve a patient's prognosis as malignant lesions can be aggressive and require complex therapeutic treatments, including surgery, radiotherapy and chemotherapy.
Viral and bacterial infections
Viral and bacterial infections, such as oral herpes and candidiasis, can cause significant symptoms and require specific treatment. Oral herpes, for example, manifests as painful blisters, while candidiasis is characterised by white plaques on the mucosa, often caused by a compromised immune system or the use of antibiotics.
Mouth ulcers
Canker sores are small painful ulcers that tend to disappear spontaneously within 3-7 days. Their aetiology may include physical trauma, stress, nutritional deficiencies and systemic conditions such as Crohn's disease.
Inflammatory diseases
Gingivitis and periodontitis are examples of inflammatory diseases of the oral cavity. If left untreated, these conditions can lead to tooth loss and systemic complications.
Autoimmune and genetic disorders
Disorders such as Lichen Planus and Sjögren's syndrome are among the autoimmune diseases affecting the oral cavity. Lichen Planus causes white lesions on the mucosa, while Sjögren's syndrome causes oral dryness due to inflammation of the salivary glands.
Risk and prevention factors
The main risk factors associated with oral diseases include:
Smoking. Tobacco consumption is strongly correlated with several oral diseases, including malignant lesions.
Alcohol. Alcohol abuse, especially in combination with smoking, significantly increases the risk of developing oral cancers.
Inadequate oral hygiene. Poor oral hygiene, poorly positioned teeth and ill-fitting dentures can cause ongoing trauma to the mucous membranes of the oral cavity.
Immune system deficiency. Conditions that weaken the immune system make the oral cavity more susceptible to infection and injury.
Metabolic diseases. Diseases such as diabetes can affect oral health by increasing the risk of infection and inflammation.
Prevention always remains the most important aspect that should not be underestimated to limit the occurrence of oral infections. Abstaining from smoking, reducing alcohol consumption, but above all careful oral hygiene and regular check-ups at the dentist are the most effective measures to reduce the risk of oral diseases.
The importance of early diagnosis and proper management of oral diseases
Early diagnosis of oral diseases is crucial to prevent serious complications and improve clinical outcomes. The dentist is a key figure who plays a crucial role in the early detection of these diseases. A multidisciplinary approach, involving collaboration with medical specialists including the oral pathologist, can develop personalised treatment plans for each patient.
Conclusion
Understanding and managing oral diseases are essential for every dental professional. These diseases not only affect oral health, but can also have significant repercussions on the general well-being of patients.
Recognising the signs of serious illness at an early stage allows patients to be directed to appropriate specialist care, ensuring high quality care that improves their health and quality of life.