Oral Medicine & Facial Pain Clinic

Specialist diagnosis and care for conditions affecting the mouth, lips, tongue, jaw and face, led by Dr Ciro, Consultant Oral Surgeon with a special interest in Oral Medicine and Facial Pain.

Not every mouth problem is a dental problem. Persistent ulcers, unexplained patches, a dry or burning mouth, changes in taste or ongoing jaw and facial pain can all be signs of a condition that needs a specialist’s eye. Our Oral Medicine clinic gives you a clear diagnosis, a straightforward explanation of what is going on, and a plan to manage it.

What is Oral Medicine?

Oral Medicine is the speciality that focuses on the diagnosis and non-surgical management of diseases of the mouth and surrounding structures. Many of these conditions are linked to general health, the immune system, medication or skin conditions, so they benefit from assessment by a clinician who understands both the mouth and the wider medical picture.

As a Consultant Oral Surgeon, Dr Ciro can also carry out a biopsy where one is needed, so your investigations and your care stay with the same specialist from start to finish.

Why choose our clinic?

• Consultant-led care: you are seen by Dr Ciro personally at every stage.
• Prompt appointments: no long waiting lists for your initial consultation.
• Biopsy on site: if a sample is needed, it can be taken here, often at or soon after your first visit.
• Fast results: biopsy samples are sent for specialist analysis and Dr Ciro reviews and reports the results to you promptly.
• Clear communication: with your permission, we keep your dentist and GP informed.

Conditions we diagnose and treat

Oral Lichen Planus

A long-term inflammatory condition that can cause lacy white lines, red areas or sore patches inside the cheeks, on the gums or on the tongue. It often comes and goes. We confirm the diagnosis, manage symptoms and arrange appropriate monitoring.

Oral Ulceration

Mouth ulcers are common and usually heal within a couple of weeks. Ulcers that keep coming back, are unusually large or painful, or do not heal need investigating. We look for the underlying cause, which can include vitamin or iron deficiencies, gut conditions, medication or immune disorders.

Lumps and Bumps in the Mouth

Swellings in the mouth are usually harmless, such as fibrous lumps from cheek biting or small blocked salivary glands. Any new or growing lump should still be checked. We assess it, explain what it is and remove or biopsy it where appropriate.

White Patches

White patches can be caused by friction, infections such as thrush, lichen planus or a condition called leukoplakia. Some white patches that cannot be rubbed away need a biopsy to rule out early changes. We identify the cause and advise on treatment and follow-up.

Red Patches

Red areas in the mouth may be due to inflammation, infection or irritation, but a persistent red patch (erythroplakia) should always be assessed by a specialist. We examine the area carefully and arrange a biopsy where needed.

Precancerous (Potentially Malignant) Lesions

Some patches in the mouth carry a higher risk of developing into oral cancer over time. Finding them early matters. We diagnose these lesions, discuss risk factors such as smoking and alcohol, and provide treatment and regular monitoring to keep you safe.

Disorders of the Tongue, Cheeks, Palate, Lips and Gums

From geographic tongue and cracked or swollen lips to peeling gums and sore patches on the palate, we assess a wide range of soft tissue conditions and explain what is causing them and how they can be managed.

Dry Mouth (Xerostomia)

A persistently dry mouth can make eating, speaking and wearing dentures difficult and increases the risk of tooth decay. It is often linked to medication, dehydration or conditions such as Sjögren’s syndrome. We investigate the cause and recommend ways to protect your teeth and relieve symptoms.

Taste Disorders

A loss of taste, altered taste or a persistent metallic, bitter or salty taste can be caused by medication, infection, nutritional deficiencies or nerve problems. We look for the underlying cause and advise on management.

Medical Conditions Affecting the Mouth

Many general health conditions show signs in the mouth, including anaemia, diabetes, Crohn’s disease, coeliac disease, skin conditions and autoimmune disorders. Some medicines also cause oral side effects. We work alongside your GP and other specialists to manage the oral aspects of your health.

Temporomandibular Disorders (TMD)

TMD affects the jaw joints and the muscles used for chewing. Symptoms include jaw pain, clicking or locking, headaches, earache and difficulty opening the mouth. Most cases improve with conservative care, and we provide a clear diagnosis and a tailored plan, which may include self-care advice, splints, medication or physiotherapy.

Burning Mouth Syndrome

A burning or scalding sensation in the tongue, lips or mouth, often with no visible cause. It can be distressing and is frequently misunderstood. We first rule out other causes such as deficiencies, infection or dry mouth, then help you manage the symptoms with an evidence-based approach.

What happens at your appointment?

1. Consultation: Dr Ciro will talk through your symptoms, medical history and any medication you take.
2. Examination: a thorough check of your mouth, jaw, face and neck.
3. Investigations: if needed, this may include a biopsy (a small tissue sample taken under local anaesthetic), blood tests or imaging.
4. Results and diagnosis: Dr Ciro reports your results promptly and explains exactly what they mean.
5. Treatment plan: a clear plan for treatment, symptom relief and any follow-up or monitoring you need.

When should you get checked?

We recommend seeking advice if you have:

• a mouth ulcer that has not healed within three weeks
• a white or red patch in your mouth
• a new lump or swelling in your mouth, lip or neck
• ongoing soreness, burning or dryness in the mouth
• jaw or facial pain that is not settling
• a change in taste that has lasted for several weeks

If your dentist or GP has already made an urgent referral, please follow that advice as well.

Frequently asked questions

Book your consultation

If something in your mouth or face does not feel right, you do not have to wait and worry. Book a consultation with Dr Ciro for a specialist opinion, fast investigations and a clear plan.

Call us on 02076380870 or e-mail us on reception@citydental.co.uk

Or click here to book online