Maxillo-Facial Surgery Institute Irvine
https://msi-i.com
📍 17877 Von Karman Avenue, Suite 370, Irvine, CA 92614
📞 (949) 818-3223

Oral health goes far beyond the teeth and gums—it encompasses the entire structure of the mouth, jaws, face, and neck. At the Maxillo-Facial Surgery Institute Irvine, our oral and maxillofacial specialists are highly trained to diagnose and treat a wide range of oral pathologies—diseases and conditions that affect the mouth, jaw, and related structures. These issues can be painful, persistent, and potentially serious if left untreated.

In this blog, we’ll explore common oral diseases and conditions we treat, including cysts, tumors, infections, sleep apnea, and TMJ disorders, and how our team is committed to improving both the function and quality of life for every patient.

What Is Oral Pathology?

Oral pathology is the branch of dentistry and medicine that studies the causes, effects, and treatment of diseases in the mouth, jaws, face, and related structures. These may range from benign lesions and infections to more serious conditions that require surgical intervention. Our team uses a combination of clinical evaluation, radiographic imaging, and biopsy to accurately diagnose and treat each condition.

Common Conditions We Treat at Maxillo-Facial Surgery Institute Irvine

1. Oral Cysts

Cysts are fluid-filled sacs that can develop within the soft tissues or bones of the mouth and jaw. While most cysts are benign, they can still cause discomfort, swelling, and damage to nearby teeth or bone if untreated.

Common types include:

• Dentigerous cysts (associated with impacted teeth)

• Periapical cysts (from infected teeth)

• Odontogenic keratocysts (can be aggressive and recurrent)

Treatment: Cysts are often removed surgically, sometimes in conjunction with tooth extraction or bone grafting depending on severity.

2. Oral Tumors

Tumors in the oral region can be benign or malignant (cancerous). Benign tumors like fibromas and papillomas may cause irritation or interfere with function. Malignant tumors require immediate and comprehensive treatment.

Warning signs include:

• A lump or thickening in the mouth

• Non-healing sores

• Unexplained bleeding

• Difficulty swallowing or moving the jaw

Treatment: Tumors are evaluated through a biopsy. If cancerous, we coordinate care with oncology specialists and may provide surgical excision and reconstruction.

3. Oral Infections

Infections in the oral cavity can stem from dental abscesses, impacted teeth, or trauma. Infections that spread into the jawbone or sinuses can become severe quickly and require urgent care.

Symptoms may include:

• Facial swelling

• Pain or difficulty opening the mouth

• Fever

• Pus drainage

Treatment: Depending on the extent of the infection, treatment may include drainage, antibiotics, or surgical removal of the source (e.g., infected tooth or tissue).

4. Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA)

Sleep apnea is a condition where breathing repeatedly stops and starts during sleep, often due to blockage in the upper airway. Oral and maxillofacial surgeons play a vital role in treating anatomical causes of OSA.

Symptoms include:

• Loud snoring

• Gasping for air during sleep

• Daytime fatigue

• Morning headaches

Treatment: For patients unresponsive to CPAP or oral appliances, we offer surgical solutions such as maxillomandibular advancement (MMA), which repositions the jaws to open the airway and significantly reduce sleep apnea symptoms.

5. Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ) Disorders

The temporomandibular joints connect your jaw to your skull and are essential for chewing, talking, and yawning. TMJ disorders can result from injury, arthritis, or jaw misalignment.

Common symptoms include:

• Jaw clicking or popping

• Headaches or facial pain

• Difficulty opening or closing the mouth

• Locking of the jaw

Treatment: Depending on the cause, treatments range from conservative approaches (physical therapy, bite splints) to surgical options such as arthroscopy or joint reconstruction.

Q&A: Oral Pathology at Maxillo-Facial Surgery Institute Irvine

Q: When should I see an oral surgeon for a lump or sore in my mouth?
A: If you notice any abnormal growth, sore, or lesion in your mouth that persists for more than two weeks, it’s important to have it evaluated. Early diagnosis is key to effective treatment, especially in cases where the lesion may be malignant.

Q: Are cysts in the jaw dangerous?
A: Most cysts are benign but can still cause significant damage if left untreated. They can grow, weaken the jawbone, or displace teeth. Surgical removal is often recommended to prevent complications.

Q: How do you diagnose oral tumors or suspicious lesions?
A: We begin with a clinical exam and imaging, followed by a biopsy—a procedure where a small tissue sample is removed and examined under a microscope to determine the nature of the lesion.

Q: Can sleep apnea surgery really help if CPAP doesn’t work for me?
A: Yes. For patients who are CPAP-intolerant, surgical options like maxillomandibular advancement (MMA) can offer long-term relief by structurally increasing the airway space. Many patients report significant improvement in sleep quality and reduction in symptoms.

Q: Is TMJ surgery the last resort?
A: In many cases, TMJ disorders can be managed with non-invasive treatments. However, when these fail or when structural damage is present, surgery may be the best option. Our team will guide you through the least invasive and most effective solutions for your case.

Q: What should I expect after oral surgery for these conditions?
A: Recovery varies depending on the type and complexity of the procedure. We provide detailed post-operative instructions and follow-up care to ensure optimal healing. Most patients can resume normal activities within a few days to weeks.

Trust Your Oral Health to the Experts

At the Maxillo-Facial Surgery Institute Irvine, our mission is to provide expert diagnosis, compassionate care, and advanced surgical treatment for patients facing complex oral health conditions. Whether you’re dealing with an unexplained lesion, a persistent jaw issue, or sleep apnea, you can trust that you’re in experienced hands.

Contact Us Today
Maxillo-Facial Surgery Institute Irvine
📍 17877 Von Karman Avenue, Suite 370, Irvine, CA 92614
📞 Phone: (949) 818-3223
🌐 Website: https://msi-i.com

Your oral health matters—schedule a consultation with us to get the answers and care you deserve.