Facial and jaw pathology · New Jersey
Cysts, Tumors, and Lesions of the Face and Jaws
Diagnosis and surgical treatment of cysts and tumors of the jaws, salivary gland stones and disease, and lesions of the facial skin, with reconstruction planned to protect function and appearance.
Medically reviewed by Benjamin Subtelny, DDS, board-certified oral and maxillofacial surgeon
Overview
Found on an X-Ray, or Found in the Mirror
Some problems of the face and jaws are found by chance on a dental X-ray. Others appear as a lump or a skin lesion that has changed. Dr. Subtelny evaluates these with an exam, imaging, and biopsy, treats them, and plans any reconstruction so that function and appearance are protected.
Conditions
What We Treat
- Jaw Cysts
- Dentigerous cysts, odontogenic keratocysts, and other cysts of the upper and lower jaw, often found on routine dental imaging.
- Jaw Tumors
- Benign tumors of the jaws such as ameloblastoma and odontoma, and fibro-osseous lesions of the facial bones.
- Salivary Glands
- Removal of salivary stones, and removal of the submandibular gland for stones or infections that keep returning, or for a tumor.
- Facial Skin Lesions
- Removal of skin lesions of the face and neck, with closure planned along the natural lines of the face.
Approach
Diagnosis, Treatment, and Reconstruction
Every specimen is examined by a pathologist, and the diagnosis guides the need for further care. Larger defects are reconstructed in the same operation or at a later stage, depending on the diagnosis, using bone grafts, titanium plates planned on three-dimensional models, or nearby tissue. When a diagnosis calls for cancer treatment, Dr. Subtelny coordinates with head and neck oncology colleagues.
Questions
Common Questions
Is a jaw cyst cancer?
Most cysts and lumps of the jaws are benign. Usually, a biopsy is how the diagnosis is confirmed.
Will there be a visible scar?
Most jaw cysts and tumors are removed through the mouth, with no visible scar. Incisions on the skin are placed along natural creases wherever possible.
Does a cyst need to be removed if it does not hurt?
Usually yes. Many jaw cysts grow slowly without symptoms and can weaken the bone or affect nearby teeth over time.
Next step
Talk It Through in Person
Consultations in Paramus and Old Bridge, New Jersey. No referral is needed.