Just like any part of the body, your mouth can get sick—and it’s more common than most people think. When that happens, a professional in oral pathology in Plantation, FL, can help your body restore its health.
From herpes to oral cancer, here are some of the most common oral diseases in the USA and how to identify them.
4 Most Common Oral Diseases in the USA
Herpes Simplex Virus Type 1
Herpes Type 1, also known as HSV-1, is one of the most common diseases in the USA—to the point that half of the population has it, according to Cleveland Clinic. This is because HSV-1 is highly contagious and can spread through saliva from kissing or even sharing utensils.
If you find blisters or cold sores in your mouth, you may have HSV-1. However, it’s also asymptomatic, so you may have it and not know it.
Candidiasis
Candidiasis, also known as oral thrush, is a fungal overgrowth that can cause red bumps and white patches inside your mouth. Oral pathologists will treat it by prescribing an antifungal medication and taking care of the underlying medical condition that caused it.
Black Hairy Tongue
Black hairy tongue makes your tongue look like it’s growing black hair—thus the name. This happens when your papillae grow longer than usual because they accumulate dead skin cells.
Then, food and other substances start staining them, turning them black.
Oral Cancer
According to the American Cancer Society, 54,010 Americans had cancer in the oral cavity pharynx in 2021. Of those numbers, 10,850 resulted in death. This shows that oral cancer is another highly common oral disease.
Oral cancer is primarily caused by HPV, with smoking and heavy alcohol use following closely behind. This means most oral cancer cases are preventable.
Find an Expert in Oral Pathology from Plantation, FL
The goal of oral pathologists is to maintain the health of your mouth and assist patients in returning to optimal condition.
If you're experiencing any oral conditions that concern you, the professionals at Oral Facial Reconstruction are here to help. Give us a call!
