Oral Pathology in Charleston, SC

Early Detection and Diagnosis of Abnormal Oral Conditions

Unusual changes in the tissues of the mouth, jaw, or face can be early signs of underlying conditions that require professional attention. At Hehr Oral Surgery, we specialize in the diagnosis and management of diseases affecting the oral and maxillofacial region, offering comprehensive evaluations and advanced testing to determine the best course of care. Patients from Charleston, MacLaura Hall, Ladson, Hanahan, Summerville, St. George, Walterboro, Orangeburg, Santee, and Holly Hill have access to expert oral pathology services in a state-of-the-art setting—no referral necessary.

What Is Oral Pathology?

Oral pathology involves the study and diagnosis of diseases that originate in or affect the mouth, jaws, salivary glands, and related structures. These conditions can range from benign cysts and growths to infections, inflammatory disorders, and, in rare cases, oral cancers.

Because many of these abnormalities are not painful in their early stages, routine self-checks and professional evaluations are essential for early detection and successful treatment.

Signs That May Require an Oral Pathology Evaluation

If you notice any of the following changes in your mouth or facial tissues, it’s important to schedule an evaluation as soon as possible:

• A sore or lesion that doesn’t heal within 10–14 days
• White, red, or speckled patches inside the mouth
• A lump or thickening in the soft tissue
• Persistent hoarseness or sore throat
• Difficulty chewing, swallowing, or moving the jaw
• Numbness or unexplained bleeding in the oral cavity

These symptoms do not always indicate serious conditions, but prompt assessment is key to ruling out more serious pathology and beginning early treatment if needed.

What to Expect During an Evaluation

Your visit begins with a comprehensive examination of your oral tissues, including visual inspection and palpation of the tongue, cheeks, gums, palate, lips, floor of the mouth, and jaw. If an abnormal area is identified, Dr. R. Jason J. Hehr, DMD may recommend further testing, including a biopsy.

Biopsies are typically performed in-office and involve removing a small sample of tissue for microscopic examination. This sample is sent to a pathology lab, where specialists assess the cells to determine whether they are benign, pre-cancerous, or malignant.

Common Conditions Diagnosed Through Oral Pathology

• Mucoceles and salivary gland cysts
• Fibromas and other benign growths
• Leukoplakia and erythroplakia (precancerous lesions)
• Oral infections (bacterial, fungal, viral)
• Lichen planus and autoimmune disorders
• Oral squamous cell carcinoma (oral cancer)

In cases requiring surgical management, Dr. Hehr provides full-scope oral surgery treatment to remove lesions or reconstruct affected areas as needed.

Why Early Diagnosis Matters

Many oral diseases are treatable—especially when caught in their early stages. Oral cancer, in particular, has a much higher survival rate when diagnosed before it spreads. Regular dental visits and timely referrals for unusual findings are critical to maintaining long-term health.

At our Charleston facility, we offer same-week appointments for patients referred by their general dentist or those who discover something unusual on their own.