Precise Oral Pathology

An oral and maxillofacial pathologist is a dental specialist who completes at least three additional years of advanced training focused on diagnosing and managing diseases affecting the mouth, jaws, and surrounding structures. These conditions may include unusual growths, persistent mouth sores, white or red patches, oral infections, autoimmune diseases, and abnormalities involving the jawbones.

As part of our specialty training, we also complete a year of general pathology training alongside medical pathology residents. This provides a broader understanding of diseases affecting the entire body, how systemic conditions can manifest in the mouth, and the importance of collaboration among healthcare specialties to provide comprehensive patient care.

Oral and maxillofacial pathologists use clinical examinations, imaging, laboratory testing, and biopsies to accurately diagnose oral and maxillofacial diseases and guide appropriate treatment and management.

An oral and maxillofacial pathologist specializes in diagnosing diseases of the mouth and jaws, while an oral and maxillofacial surgeon primarily focuses on surgical treatment. Oral pathologists may perform biopsies, evaluate complex oral conditions, and help manage chronic diseases affecting the oral tissues. Oral surgeons typically perform procedures such as tooth extractions, corrective jaw surgery, and treatment of certain jaw abnormalities. These specialties often work together to provide comprehensive patient care.

Oral and maxillofacial pathologists can pursue a variety of career paths. Some focus on microscopic examination of tissue specimens to establish diagnoses, while others dedicate their careers to teaching, research, or direct patient care. Many combine several of these roles.

Dr. Price divides her time between clinical practice and education. At Precise Oral Pathology, she evaluates patients, performs biopsies, and manages chronic oral conditions. She also teaches dental students at Ponce Health Sciences University (PHSU) and provides continuing education lectures to dental professionals locally and nationally, helping clinicians improve their ability to recognize, diagnose, and manage oral diseases.

Oral surgeons, periodontists, and other dental specialists are highly trained professionals who diagnose and treat a variety of oral conditions. However, oral and maxillofacial pathologists dedicate their careers specifically to recognizing, diagnosing, and managing diseases of the mouth, jaws, and surrounding structures, including rare or complex conditions that many dental professionals, even other specialists, may encounter infrequently.

Because of this specialized focus, oral pathologists develop a keen eye for identifying subtle abnormalities, distinguishing between conditions that may appear similar, and recognizing when additional testing or a biopsy is necessary. Just as importantly, we can recognize when a finding is simply a normal anatomical variation or a harmless condition that does not require a biopsy or other intervention, helping patients avoid unnecessary procedures while providing peace of mind.

While other dental specialists may be able to evaluate or treat certain oral conditions, an oral and maxillofacial pathologist offers a unique level of expertise when a diagnosis is uncertain, a lesion persists, or a patient requires long-term management of a complex oral disease. We frequently collaborate with other dental and medical specialists to ensure patients receive the most appropriate care.

No! At Precise Oral Pathology, patients can schedule an appointment without a referral from their dentist or physician.

However, many patients are referred by their general dentist, dental hygienist, oral surgeon, dermatologist, rheumatologist, or another healthcare provider after an unusual finding is identified.

Oral and maxillofacial pathologists evaluate a wide variety of conditions, including:

• Persistent mouth sores or ulcers
• White or red patches in the mouth
• Unusual lumps, bumps, or growths
• Oral lichen planus and other inflammatory conditions
• Autoimmune diseases affecting the oral tissues
• Burning mouth symptoms
• Salivary gland disorders
• Cysts and tumors involving the jaws
• Oral potentially malignant disorders
• Oral cancer and suspicious lesions

Not every condition requires a biopsy or surgical treatment. Many oral conditions can be diagnosed clinically and managed with medications, monitoring, or coordination with other healthcare providers.

Most mouth sores are caused by minor injuries, irritation, or other benign conditions. However, a sore that does not heal within two weeks should be evaluated by a dental or medical professional.

Persistent ulcers may occasionally be associated with more serious conditions, including oral cancer. Early evaluation helps determine whether treatment, monitoring, or a biopsy is necessary.

Not necessarily. White patches in the mouth can develop for many reasons, including friction, fungal infections, inflammatory conditions, and other benign changes.

However, some persistent white patches may represent oral potentially malignant disorders (OPMDs), meaning they have an increased risk of developing into oral cancer over time.

A clinical examination, and sometimes a biopsy, is necessary to determine the cause.

Red patches may be caused by irritation, inflammation, infections, or other conditions. Certain persistent red lesions can also be associated with epithelial dysplasia or oral cancer.

Because the appearance alone cannot always determine the diagnosis, unexplained red patches should be evaluated, particularly if they persist or are accompanied by ulceration, bleeding, or changes in texture.

Yes. Early oral cancer may not cause pain or noticeable symptoms. Some oral cancers initially appear as a painless ulcer, a persistent red or white patch, or a small lump. In some cases, the first noticeable sign of oral or oropharyngeal cancer may be a painless lump on one side of the neck that does not go away, which can represent an enlarged lymph node.

The lateral borders (sides) of the tongue and the floor of the mouth (the area underneath the tongue) are particularly high-risk locations for oral cancer. However, oral cancer can develop anywhere in the oral cavity, including the gums, cheeks, palate, and lips.

This is why routine oral cancer screenings and prompt evaluation of persistent abnormalities are important, even when nothing hurts. The absence of pain does not necessarily mean a lesion is harmless.

Possible warning signs include:

• A mouth sore that does not heal
• Persistent red or white patches
• An unexplained lump or thickened area
• Unexplained bleeding
• Difficulty swallowing or speaking
• Persistent numbness or pain
• A new lump in the neck

These symptoms do not necessarily mean cancer is present, but they warrant professional evaluation.

An oral biopsy is a procedure in which a small sample of tissue is removed and examined under a microscope to help establish a diagnosis.

Biopsies can help distinguish between benign conditions, inflammatory diseases, infections, precancerous changes, and oral cancer.

Oral biopsies are performed using local anesthesia to ensure the area is completely numb before the procedure begins, similar to the anesthesia used for other dental procedures. You may feel some pressure, but you should not experience sharp pain during the biopsy. Nitrous oxide (laughing gas) is also available to help patients feel more relaxed and comfortable.

Dr. Price prides herself on making patient comfort a top priority and takes the time to ensure patients feel at ease and adequately numb throughout their procedure.

Afterward, most patients experience only mild tenderness or discomfort, often described as feeling similar to a pizza burn on the roof of your mouth. The amount of discomfort varies depending on the location and size of the biopsy, but many patients report that the experience is easier than other dental procedures they have undergone. Over-the-counter pain medications, such as ibuprofen (Advil) or acetaminophen (Tylenol), are typically sufficient to manage any postoperative discomfort, provided they are safe for you to take.

Patients are encouraged to eat before their appointment, as fasting is not necessary for procedures performed under local anesthesia. A driver is not required when receiving local anesthesia. Dr. Price welcomes patients to bring a family member or trusted friend to their consultation. Having a second set of ears can be helpful when discussing findings, possible diagnoses, and treatment options.

Biopsy results commonly take approximately two weeks, although the timing varies depending on whether additional testing is required.

Some conditions require specialized stains or other studies to establish an accurate diagnosis.

At Precise Oral Pathology, biopsy specimens are submitted to Northwell Health laboratory (where Dr. Price completed her residency training) for microscopic evaluation, and results are reviewed with the patient once available.

Absolutely not. Most oral biopsies are performed to determine the cause of an abnormality, and many reveal benign or inflammatory conditions.

A biopsy is a diagnostic tool, not a cancer diagnosis.

Some oral lesions resolve without treatment, particularly those caused by minor trauma or temporary irritation.

However, other lesions may persist or require treatment. A lesion that remains present (especially when present for > 2 week), changes in appearance, or repeatedly returns should be evaluated rather than assumed to be harmless.

Burning sensations in the mouth can have several causes, including dry mouth, nutritional deficiencies, medication effects, oral infections, and certain nerve-related conditions.

Burning mouth syndrome is a condition in which patients experience persistent burning or discomfort without an identifiable cause on routine examination.

A thorough evaluation can help identify treatable causes and determine appropriate management.

Oral lichen planus is a chronic inflammatory condition that can affect the lining of the mouth.

It may appear as white, lace-like patterns, red areas, or painful erosions and ulcers. Some patients experience no symptoms, while others develop sensitivity to spicy, acidic, or hot foods.

Treatment is patient dependent and varies based on the severity of symptoms and may include topical medications and periodic monitoring.

Yes. Several autoimmune and immune-mediated diseases can affect the oral tissues, sometimes before symptoms appear elsewhere in the body.

Examples include pemphigus vulgaris, mucous membrane pemphigoid, and certain forms of lupus.

Symptoms may include persistent ulcers, fragile tissues, blisters, or painful and peeling gums. Diagnosis may require specialized biopsies and laboratory testing.

Inflammatory and immune-mediated conditions can sometimes cause the gums to become red, fragile, painful, or prone to peeling and bleeding.

This appearance is sometimes described as desquamative gingivitis. It is a clinical finding rather than a specific diagnosis.

Evaluation with an oral pathologist can help determine whether the changes are related to plaque-induced inflammation, oral lichen planus, pemphigoid, pemphigus, or another condition.

Your initial appointment includes a thorough review of your medical and dental history, discussion of your symptoms, and a comprehensive examination of your mouth and surrounding structures. Depending on your condition, additional imaging, laboratory testing, or a biopsy may be recommended.

To help us better understand your condition, we encourage you to bring an up-to-date list of your medications, medical conditions, and any products you regularly use in your mouth. This includes toothpaste, mouthrinses, mints, chewing gum, cinnamon-containing products, and other oral hygiene products or habits. Certain ingredients can contribute to irritation or allergic reactions, so these details can be particularly helpful in identifying potential causes of your symptoms.

At Precise Oral Pathology, patient education is a priority. Dr. Price takes the time to explain potential diagnoses, answer your questions, discuss treatment options, and ensure you understand the recommended next steps in your care.

Not necessarily! Many oral conditions can be diagnosed or managed without a biopsy. Dr. Price will carefully evaluate your condition and determine whether a biopsy, additional testing, or simply monitoring the area is the most appropriate next step. If a biopsy is indicated, Dr. Price can typically perform it during the same appointment, saving you the time and inconvenience of scheduling a separate visit.

Dr. Price doesn’t like surprises, and she doesn’t want her patients to have any either! If a biopsy or other procedure is recommended, you will always be informed of the associated costs, risks, benefits, and available alternatives before proceeding. We believe patients should feel comfortable, informed, and confident in their decisions about their care. No procedures will be performed without first discussing these details and obtaining your consent.

Precise Oral Pathology is a privately owned, fee-for-service, out-of-network specialty practice. Dr. Price does not participate as an in-network provider with medical or dental insurance plans, but the front desk will provide patients with the appropriate documentation and billing codes to submit claims to their insurance for possible reimbursement. Reimbursement depends on each patient’s individual insurance benefits and coverage.

As a small, highly specialized practice that rents space to operate out of an oral surgery office, Dr. Price has intentionally chosen to remain out-of-network. In today’s insurance environment, the reimbursement rates offered by many insurance plans can make it difficult to dedicate the amount of time she believes each patient deserves.

Unlike larger practices that may need to see a high volume of patients to remain financially sustainable, Dr. Price’s priority is providing individualized, thorough, and unhurried care. She wants every patient to have the time to share their concerns, ask questions, understand their diagnosis, and explore their treatment options without feeling rushed.

The goal is not to see the most patients in a day, but to give each patient the time, attention, and respect they deserve. Dr. Price believes that complex oral conditions require thoughtful evaluation, and that patients should feel heard, informed, and confident in their care.

All fees are discussed before treatment so patients can make informed decisions without unexpected costs.

Precise Oral Pathology is located in Brookhaven, Georgia, serving patients throughout the greater Atlanta metropolitan area. Dr. Price welcomes patients seeking specialized evaluation of oral lesions, mucosal diseases, and jaw abnormalities.

While the practice is based in Atlanta, Dr. Price also welcome patients from out of state, regularly seeing individuals who travel from North Carolina, South Carolina, Florida, and beyond for specialized oral pathology care.

Free parking is available in the parking garage attached to the building. For your convenience, please refer to the photograph below, which marks the location of the parking garage entrance to help you find your way when arriving for your appointment.

Patients and referring healthcare providers can schedule a consultation with Precise Oral Pathology by calling 770-799-6028 or emailing info@jawimplant.com.

You can also visit my website at www.preciseoralpathology.com to learn more about our services and what to expect during your visit.

Dr. Price welcomes both patient inquiries and referrals from dental and medical professionals!