Oral Pathology

Expert Diagnosis & Surgical Care for Oral Lesions and Abnormalities

Not all changes in the mouth are harmless. Some may be early signs of precancerous or cancerous conditions, and others may indicate underlying disease that requires expert diagnosis and care. At Clackamas Implant & Oral Surgery Center, Brett M. Sullivan, DMD, MD brings advanced surgical training and clinical judgment to the detection and treatment of oral pathology.

If your dentist or physician has referred you for an evaluation—or if you’ve noticed unexplained changes in your mouth—our team is here to help you get clarity and, if needed, timely treatment.

What Is Oral Pathology?

Oral pathology is the study and treatment of diseases that affect the soft tissues, bones, and structures of the mouth and jaw. While many oral changes are benign, some lesions may be precancerous, malignant, or indicative of a systemic health issue. Early detection is critical to achieving the best outcomes.

When to See a Specialist

In a healthy mouth, the inner lining of the cheeks, lips, tongue, gums, and palate should appear smooth and pink. If you notice any of the following signs, it’s important to seek evaluation:

• White patches (leukoplakia) or red patches (erythroplasia)
• A lump, bump, or thickened area inside the mouth
• Ulcers or sores that don’t heal within 2 weeks
• Chronic hoarseness or sore throat
• Difficulty swallowing or chewing
• Unexplained pain or numbness in the mouth or face

These symptoms can appear anywhere in the oral cavity or neck, and many concerning conditions are painless in their early stages, making professional evaluation essential.

Dr. Sullivan’s Role in Diagnosis & Treatment

As a dual-degreed oral and maxillofacial surgeon (DMD, MD), Dr. Sullivan has extensive training in pathology, surgery, and systemic disease. His role includes:

• Thorough clinical examinations for suspicious tissue
• Soft tissue biopsies to obtain a definitive diagnosis
• 3D imaging for deeper or complex lesions
• Surgical excision of lesions if malignancy or high risk is confirmed

Patients are often referred by general dentists, hygienists, or physicians. Dr. Sullivan provides clear communication, rapid assessment, and coordinated care with medical and oncology teams when needed.

Oral Cancer Screenings & Risk Factors

Routine oral cancer screenings—especially during dental checkups—can catch disease early. You may be at increased risk if you:

• Use tobacco (smoked or smokeless)
• Drink alcohol heavily or regularly
• Have excessive sun exposure (linked to lip cancer)
• Have a family or personal history of oral cancer
• Are over age 40 or have human papillomavirus (HPV) exposure

If a dentist or physician detects abnormal tissue during a screening, they may refer you to Dr. Sullivan for biopsy and further evaluation.

Oral Surgery Before Cancer Treatment

If you’ve been diagnosed with oral cancer and are preparing for chemotherapy or radiation, oral surgery may be necessary to reduce complications. Dr. Sullivan often performs:

• Tooth extractions of infected or unstable teeth
• Surgical planning to minimize post-treatment risks, including osteonecrosis (bone death) following radiation therapy

This proactive approach helps preserve oral and systemic health during cancer treatment.

A Trusted Resource for Patients and Providers

Facing a possible diagnosis of oral disease or cancer can be overwhelming. Dr. Sullivan brings:

• A calm, supportive approach during uncertain times
• A DMD-MD background that combines dental, surgical, and medical insight
• Thousands of successful procedures, including biopsies and tumor removals
• Strong collaboration with referring dentists, ENT specialists, and oncology teams