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  • About
    • Meet Dr. Ficca
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  • Procedures
    • Cleanings & Prevention
      • Overview
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      • How to Properly Brush & Floss
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    • Periodontal Disease
      • Periodontal Disease Overview
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    • Periodontics
      • Periodontist
      • Bone Grafting
      • Crown Lengthening
      • Gingivitis Treatment
      • Gum & Jawbone Corrective Treatments
      • Gum Grafting
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      • Oral Pathology
      • Platelet Rich Plasma (PRP)
      • Impacted Canines
      • Simple Tooth Extractions
      • Antibiotic Treatment
      • Bruxism
      • Oral Cancer Exam
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      • Pocket Irrigation
      • Pocket Reduction Surgery
      • Prophylaxis (Teeth Cleaning)
      • Regenerative Procedures
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      • Root Amputation
      • Sinus Augmentation
      • Soft Tissue Grafting
    • Gum Disease Treatment
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  • About
    • Meet Dr. Ficca
    • Meet Dr. Hall
    • Meet Our Team
    • Our Practice
    • When to See a Periodontist
    • What Is a Periodontist?
    • Blog
  • Dental Implants
    • Dental Implants
    • All on 4 Dental Implants
    • Teeth Implants (Teeth in a Day)
    • Same-Day Dental Implants
    • Dentures vs. Dental Implants
    • Peri Implantitis
    • FAQs
      • Guide to Eating After Dental Implants
      • Questions to Ask About Dental Implants
      • How Dental Implants Work: The Benefits
  • Procedures
    • Cleanings & Prevention
      • Overview
      • Dental Exams & Cleanings
      • Digital X-Rays
      • Fluoride Treatment
      • Home Dental Care
      • How to Properly Brush & Floss
      • i-CAT® 3D Imaging
      • Oral Hygiene Aids
      • Panoramic X-Rays
    • Periodontal Disease
      • Periodontal Disease Overview
      • Periodontal Disease Treatment
      • Mouth – Body Connection
      • Periodontal Disease and Diabetes
      • Periodontal Disease, Heart Disease, and Stroke
      • Periodontal Disease and Pregnancy
      • Periodontal Disease and Osteoporosis
      • Periodontal Disease and Respiratory Disease
    • Periodontics
      • Periodontist
      • Bone Grafting
      • Crown Lengthening
      • Gingivitis Treatment
      • Gum & Jawbone Corrective Treatments
      • Gum Grafting
      • Gum Recession Treatment
      • Oral Pathology
      • Platelet Rich Plasma (PRP)
      • Impacted Canines
      • Simple Tooth Extractions
      • Antibiotic Treatment
      • Bruxism
      • Oral Cancer Exam
      • Periodontal Scaling & Root Planing
      • Pocket Irrigation
      • Pocket Reduction Surgery
      • Prophylaxis (Teeth Cleaning)
      • Regenerative Procedures
      • Ridge Modification
      • Root Amputation
      • Sinus Augmentation
      • Soft Tissue Grafting
    • Gum Disease Treatment
    • Dental Anxiety and Fear
    • Sedation Dentistry
    • All Procedures
  • Galleries
    • Dental Implants
    • Soft Tissue Grafting
    • Crown Lengthening
    • Gingivectomy
  • Patient Info
    • Patient Resources
    • Patient Reviews
    • Patient Forms
    • Patient FAQ’s
    • Newsletter
    • Helpful Links
    • Also Serving
      • Dental Implants Matthews, NC
      • Dental Implants Pineville, NC
      • Dental Implants Indian Trail, NC
      • Dental Implants Monroe, NC
      • Dental Implants Fort Mill, SC
  • Referring Doctors
  • Contact
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Oral Pathology Charlotte, NC

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An oral exam is routinely performed by the dentist during the course of an initial comprehensive exam and regular check-ups. An oral cancer exam refers to the identification and management of diseases pertaining to the maxillofacial and oral regions.

The soft tissue of the mouth is normally lined with mucosa, which is special type of skin that should appear smooth in texture and pink in color. Any alteration of the color or texture of the mucosa may signal the beginning of a pathologic process. These changes may occur on the face, neck, and areas of the mouth (e.g., gums, tongue, lips, etc.). The most serious of these pathologic changes (which may or may not be painful) is oral cancer, but there are also many other common pathologic problems.

Geographic Tongue – Also known as Benign Migratory Glossitis or Erythema Migrans, is a condition where the tongue is missing papillae (small bumps) in different areas, and a map-like appearance can develop. This condition is usually seen as red well defined areas on or around the sides of the tongue. The red patches (which can look like an unsightly rash) may come and go from hours to months at a time and cause increased sensitivity to certain substances.

Median Palatal Cyst – This cyst is of developmental origin and is essentially a fluid filled skin sac. It usually appears in the middle of the palate and may cause substantial discomfort.

Hairy Tongue – An overgrowth of bacteria or a yeast infection in the mouth which can cause the tongue to appear hairy and black. This condition is usually a result of poor oral hygiene, chronic or extensive use of antibiotics, or radiation treatments to the head or neck. It is often also seen in HIV positive patients and those who are intravenous drug users. Hairy Tongue may or may not require treatment.

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Treatment of Pathological Diseases

In the majority of cases, the pathological changes experienced in the oral region are uncomfortable and disfiguring, but not life threatening. However, oral cancer is on the rise (especially among men) and the chances of survival are around 80% if an immediate diagnosis is made.

Oral cancer is a general term used when referring to any type of cancer affecting the tongue, jaw, and lower cheek area. Since it is impossible for the dentist to decisively diagnose a pathological disease without taking a biopsy sample of the affected area, seeking immediate treatment when changes are first noticed might be a life and death decision. For less serious problems, there are several options available, such as:

  • Antibiotics – In the case of a bacterial infection or persistent soreness, the dentist may prescribe a dose of antibiotics to return the mucosa to its natural state. This will alleviate soreness and discomfort.
  • Diluted Hydrogen Peroxide – When poor oral hygiene is causing changes to the soft tissue, the dentist may prescribe a diluted hydrogen peroxide mouthwash. This will kill more bacteria than regular mouthwash and improve halitosis (bad breath).
  • Oral Surgery – If the patient has cysts or abnormal non-cancerous growths, the dentist may decide to completely remove them. This can improve comfort levels, alleviate breathing problems, and make speech substantially easier depending on the location of the cyst.

Oral Examinations

During the course of a regular check-up, the dentist will thoroughly inspect the soft tissue of the mouth and take serious note of any changes. If there are cell changes present, the dentist will take a biopsy of the affected area and send it away to be analyzed by laboratory specialists. When definitive results are obtained, the dentist can decide on the optimal course of treatment.


Oral Cancer Screenings

An oral cancer screening is usually performed during a comprehensive or recall (check-up) exam. Screening is painless and only takes a few minutes. The dentist or hygienist will use a laser light to assess the soft tissue for cell changes that might be indicative of oral cancer. If such cell changes are present, a small biopsy will be taken and sent to a laboratory for review. If the biopsy indicates that oral cancer is present, an excision (removal) will generally be performed.

If you are experiencing any pain or symptoms that cause you concern, we encourage you to contact us today to schedule an appointment online or call our office in Charlotte at (704) 544-2224.

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350 Reviews

“Simply the best! Dr. Ficca’s team is a caring, professional and talented group. After losing a front tooth I had no idea what an implant would entail. Dr. Ficca explained the entire process to me, and patiently answered all of my questions. It’s been six months since the implant, and I couldn’t be happier. ”
Mat H.

“I went through the tooth implant process with Dr. Ficca and his staff over the course of six months in 2020. From the moment I walked into my first appointment, Dr. Ficca and his staff have been highly professional, friendly and competent. The whole process was a great experience. To anyone searching for a fantastic periodontist with a great staff, I highly recommend Dr. Ficca.”
Marc S.

“I would recommend Dr. Ficca and his staff to anyone needing any periodontal treatment. Dr. Ficca is my hero! He saved my teeth!!! He did gum grafting on all my gums in 2008 and do you know I did not have any issues or problems during the entire healing process! Dr. Ficca and Nannette do an incredible job of protecting my teeth; deep cleaning and maintenance!! They think of everything for your comfort and safety, even safety glasses!”
Glenda K.

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Matthew D. Ficca, DMD, MSDMeet Dr. Ficca
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“Excellent! The staff, doctor Ficca, and everyone I dealt with here was wonderful. I felt they went above and beyond in every aspect and I highly recommend.”

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Specializing in Dental Implants and Periodontal Health in Charlotte, NC

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At Metrolina Periodontics & Dental Implants in Charlotte, NC, our skilled team, including board-certified periodontist Dr. Ficca and specialist periodontist Dr. Hall, provides comprehensive dental implant placement and periodontal care. We offer a full range of services, from dental implants for tooth loss to the prevention and treatment of gum disease. We are committed to providing personalized oral care and the highest standard of excellence in periodontics.

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(704) 544-2224
Address
3325 Springbank Lane
Suite 140
Charlotte, NC 28226
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