Department of Oral Medicine & Radiology
Oral Medicine
Oral Medicine is a specialized field in dentistry focused on the clinical diagnosis and non-surgical management of diseases affecting the oral cavity, head, and neck region. It acts as a bridge between dentistry and general medicine, particularly when dealing with patients who present with oral manifestations of systemic diseases.
Key areas include:
Developmental disorders – abnormalities in the growth and formation of oral and facial structures.
Musculoskeletal conditions – such as temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders causing facial pain and jaw dysfunction.
Metabolic disorders – like diabetes, which often leads to dry mouth, infections, and delayed healing in the oral tissues.
Neurological conditions – including trigeminal neuralgia and burning mouth syndrome, which impact sensation and pain perception in the oral region.
Oral medicine specialists often work with patients who have chronic illnesses, autoimmune disorders, or are undergoing treatments like chemotherapy or radiotherapy, which can affect oral health. These conditions are managed primarily through pharmacological treatments, without surgical intervention. The field also emphasizes the early detection of potentially malignant lesions and oral cancer, making it essential for preventive care.
