Abstract

Dental pathology, a crucial branch of oral medicine and surgery, involves the study, diagnosis, and management of diseases affecting the teeth, jawbones, and surrounding soft tissues. With rising awareness and research in oral health, dental pathology plays a pivotal role in early detection of systemic diseases, oral cancers, and microbial infections. This article aims to provide a comprehensive overview of dental pathology, its common conditions, diagnostic tools, and advancements in treatment approaches. Dental pathology is a specialized field of dental science that focuses on the study of diseases affecting the oral cavity, including the teeth, gums, supporting bone structures, and associated mucosal tissues. These diseases can range from common, non-life-threatening conditions like dental caries and periodontal disease to more serious and complex disorders such as oral cancers and systemic diseases with oral manifestations. This paper provides a comprehensive overview of dental pathology, exploring the etiology, pathogenesis, clinical presentation, diagnostic methodologies, and treatment approaches for a broad spectrum of oral diseases. By examining microbial, genetic, environmental, and behavioral factors that contribute to disease development, the study aims to bridge gaps in knowledge and highlight the importance of early diagnosis and interdisciplinary care. The evolution of diagnostic tools such as digital imaging, molecular diagnostics, and histopathological analysis has greatly improved our understanding of dental pathologies and has led to more accurate classifications and targeted therapies. In addition, recent insights into the oral-systemic health connection have revealed that oral diseases may serve as early indicators or risk factors for systemic conditions such as cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and adverse pregnancy outcomes. This underscores the importance of integrating dental care into broader health care systems and public health policies. Ultimately, this review underscores the critical need for continued research, improved public awareness, and preventive strategies to address both the prevalence and the burden of dental diseases globally. Emphasizing a multidisciplinary approach, the study advocates for collaboration between dental professionals, medical practitioners, researchers, and public health officials to reduce the incidence of oral diseases and enhance patient outcomes through early intervention, personalized care, and effective education.