A Specialised Approach to Oral Health
Oral medicine is a specialist field that diagnoses complex oral health conditions, particularly those linked to systemic diseases. At Lucas Dental in the South Plympton area we can help address a wide range of mouth disorders including common lesions to oral presentations of more serious medical conditions. With a focus on both diagnosis and management, oral medicine plays a crucial role in bridging general dental care and broader healthcare needs here at Lucas Dental. We can help refer you to the correct specialist.
What Is Oral Medicine?
Definition and Purpose
Oral medicine is a dental specialty that goes beyond routine dental care and focuses on the diagnosis and treatment of complex oral health issues. These conditions may come from systemic diseases, such as diabetes or autoimmune disorders, which present symptoms in the mouth. At Lucas Dental we refer to oral medicine to manage these oral health challenges comprehensively, making sure our patients receive specialised care that addresses both the oral and systemic areas of their health.
How It Differs from General Dentistry
Unlike general dentistry, which focuses on preventive care and treatments like fillings and cleanings, oral medicine is a medical approach. Specialists in oral medicine diagnose conditions that extend beyond the typical scope of dental care, such as oral lesions, ulcers, and oral cancer. Specialists often work closely with other healthcare providers to manage the oral symptoms of systemic diseases, offering our patients a more comprehensive level of care.
Conditions Managed by Oral Medicine
Oral Lesions and Ulcers
Oral lesions and ulcers are common conditions that our oral medicine specialists diagnose and treat. While many ulcers heal on their own, persistent or recurring ulcers may indicate underlying health issues that need professional evaluation.
Understanding Oral Ulcers
Oral ulcers can appear in various forms, including canker sores and traumatic ulcers caused by injury or irritation. These ulcers may cause pain, discomfort and cause difficulty eating or speaking. If ulcers persist or get worse, they may signal a more serious health condition. If you are concerned about mouth sores or ulcers you can book in to see us at Lucas Dental here.
Medications for Ulcers
Treatment options for oral ulcers can include topical anaesthetics to numb the area, corticosteroids to reduce inflammation and antiseptics to minimise infection. These medications help relieve symptoms and promote healing, helping to make sure our patients have minimal discomfort.
Oral Cancer Screening
Regular oral cancer screenings are essential for early detection, particularly for anyone at higher risk due to lifestyle factors such as smoking or genetic predispositions. Early diagnosis increases the chances of successful treatment so it’s important to book in to see us Lucas Dental if you have any concerning oral health issues.
Mouth Disorders and Infections
Oral medicine also includes the treatment of mouth disorders. For example, fungal infections like thrush, viral infections and autoimmune conditions that affect the oral cavity. Infections like these usually require specialised care beyond general dental treatments.
Oral Presentations of Systemic Diseases
Many systemic diseases present symptoms in the mouth. For example, diabetes can lead to dry mouth and gum disease and some autoimmune conditions may cause oral ulcers and inflammation.
Salivary Gland Disorders
Oral medicine also focuses on diagnosing and treating disorders of the salivary glands, such as infections, tumours or dry mouth. These conditions can have negative impact on a patient’s oral health and overall well-being. We can help – to see us here.
Diagnosis and Treatment
Diagnostic Techniques in Oral Medicine
Specialists use advanced diagnostic tools such as biopsies, imaging and laboratory tests to identify oral health conditions. These diagnostic methods help us plan the best course of treatment for each patient.
Treatment Options in Oral Medicine
Treatment plans in oral medicine vary depending on the condition. They may include medications, minor surgeries or lifestyle recommendations to manage chronic conditions. In some cases, specialists collaborate with other medical professionals to provide multidisciplinary care.
When to See an Oral Medicine Specialist
Generally speaking, you will be referred to an oral medicine specialist by your dentist at Lucas Dental.
You can book in for a consultation .
Chronic or Unresolved Oral Issues
Patients experiencing persistent oral issues, such as ulcers or unexplained pain, should consider seeing an oral medicine specialist. Early intervention can prevent more serious complications and improve quality of life. If you want to talk to us about any oral health issues you have, you can book in .
Referral from Your General Dentist
one of our friendly staff members at Lucas Dental will often refer our patients to oral medicine specialists when certain conditions require advanced diagnostic techniques or medical treatment beyond routine dental care.
Oral Health Concerns Linked to Other Medical Conditions
Our patients with systemic conditions, such as autoimmune diseases or diabetes, will often be advised to get specialised care for systemic oral health issues because these conditions can affect your overall health as well as your oral health. A multi-disciplinary approach is often needed.
Benefits of Oral Medicine
Comprehensive Oral Health Care
Oral medicine is a comprehensive approach to managing complex oral health issues. It’s a more holistic way of looking at the symptoms and working together with multi-disciplinary specialist to find the root cause of the problem and develop the most appropriate care plan.
Early Detection and Prevention
Specialists in oral medicine play a very important role in the early detection of oral conditions, such as oral cancer and they improve treatment outcomes through early intervention.
Frequently Asked Questions
What conditions does an oral medicine specialist treat?
How is oral medicine different from regular dental care?
Ready for Specialised Oral Health Care?
If you’re dealing with persistent oral health issues or need a specialised diagnosis you can book in to see us today.