Oral Pathology: Techniques for Detection and Differential Diagnosis

A variety of mechanisms and technologies are available to help identify, screen, and diagnose common oral pathologies and oral abnormalities. The article will focus on implementing these tools into practice, as well as key areas to explore when making a differential diagnosis, which may involve referring to a specialist in some situations.

LEARNING OBJECTIVES:

• Describe how to identify and differentiate between common abnormalities of the mouth and surrounding areas.

• Define screening methods and tools to aid in the detection of oral pathologies.

• Discuss how to confidently make a differential diagnosis.

About the Author

Cynthia Blendermann Perone, DDS, Private Practice, Destin, Florida