Overview
Oral Medicine deals with the diagnosis and mostly non-surgical management of oral
mucosal diseases (dermatologic diseases of the mouth), orofacial pain, oral manifestations
of systemic diseases, salivary gland disorders, and the dental management of medically
complex patients.
Clinical Focus
We use a multidisciplinary approach to dental health and medicine, collaborating with
eleven dental disciplines, including periodontics, endodontics, and oral surgery as
well as a number of medical disciplines, such as ENT, dermatology, oncology, neurology,
hematology, radiology, surgery, rheumatology and psychiatry to expertly diagnose and
treat orofacial pain, orofacial sensory disturbances, and oral mucosal diseases.
- Temporomandibular Joint Disorders (TMD)
Symptoms include headaches, stiff or sore jaw, chewing discomfort, and facial and
tooth pain and may be associated with tooth-grinding habits, trouble sleeping, and
muscle stiffness in the neck and shoulders. Whiplash related injuries from motor
vehicle accidents also can be a cause.
- Sensory (neuropathic pain) and Movement Disorders
These include tics, parafunctional disorders, and focal dystonias.
- Burning Mouth Syndrome (BMS)
This is often affects the tongue, palate, and/or lips and is associated with symptoms
including burning, dryness, and altered taste.
- Taste & Smell Disorders
- Atypical Orofacial and Tooth Pain
- Facial and Trigeminal Neuralgias
- Oral Cancer and Oral Complications from Cancer Treatment
- Oral Changes of Systemic Diseases
- Salivary Gland Dysfunction (Sjogren’s Syndrome and I131)
- Infectious and Inflammatory Conditions
- Viral, Bacterial and Fungal Infections
- Benign Growths of the Oral Cavity
- Canker Sores (Aphthous Ulcers)
- Bad Breath (Halitosis)
- Dry Mouth (Xerostomia)
- Sleep Breathing Disorders (Sleep Apnea)
- Oral Mucosal Diseases and Dermatologic Conditions of the oral cavity including Lichen
Planus, Pemphigoid, and Pemphigus
- Migraine and Headache Disorders
- Independent Medical Examinations
