ATTENTION VA BEACH PATIENTS:
Our new location is 837 First Colonial Road, VA Beach, VA 23451
A small sore that will not heal, a lump along the cheek, or a patch of discoloration on the tongue can be easy to dismiss at first. Most soft-tissue changes in the mouth turn out to be harmless, yet distinguishing a minor irritation from something that needs closer attention is not something anyone should guess about on their own. Oral soft-tissue concerns can affect the gums, tongue, inner cheeks, lips, or floor of the mouth, and timely evaluation gives patients clarity and, when needed, a fast path to treatment.
At Goodove Oral Surgery & Dental Implants, we built our oral pathology services around the same philosophy that has guided this independent, community-rooted practice for years: patients deserve direct access to their surgeon and a personalized plan of care. Dr. Scott R. Goodove and Dr. Peter Zagursky bring board certification and years of hands-on surgical experience to every soft-tissue evaluation
Oral soft-tissue surgery addresses growths, lesions, and structural irregularities in the tissues lining the mouth. This can include removing a fibroma caused by repeated biting or irritation, treating a mucocele that has formed after a minor salivary gland is blocked, or performing a biopsy on a lesion whose appearance warrants a closer look under a microscope. Some patients arrive at our office because their general dentist noticed something unusual during a routine cleaning, while others come in on their own after noticing a change that lingered longer than it should have.
Every evaluation begins with a thorough visual and physical examination of the mouth, cheeks, tongue, and gum tissue. If a lesion appears to need further investigation, we can perform an incisional or excisional biopsy right in our office, first numbing the area so the procedure feels similar to routine dental work. According to research published by the National Institutes of Health, biopsy remains the most reliable way to determine whether hard or soft tissue changes in the oral cavity are benign or malignant, so we don’t hesitate to recommend one when a lesion’s appearance warrants it.
Patients are referred to us, or seek us out directly, for a range of soft-tissue concerns. A few of the most common include:
Once we identify the underlying cause, we walk patients through the recommended next step, whether that means simple removal of the tissue, a period of monitoring, or referral for additional care.
Most oral soft-tissue changes are not cancerous, but the only way to know for certain is through examination and, when appropriate, laboratory analysis. Waiting on a persistent sore or lump rarely helps and can delay treatment if the tissue turns out to require more than routine care. Because our doctors see these cases regularly, we can often distinguish a benign irritation from something that needs a biopsy during the very first visit.
This kind of prompt, personal attention is part of why so many referring dentists across Hampton Roads send their patients directly to us before making a referral. Being an independent, community-focused practice gives Dr. Goodove and Dr. Zagursky the flexibility to make decisions based on what is right for each patient, not a corporate protocol, and that flexibility shows up in how quickly we can get a concerned patient in for an evaluation.
Patients coming in for a soft-tissue concern can expect a calm, thorough process from start to finish. After reviewing medical history and discussing any symptoms, our surgical team will examine the affected area, discuss what we observe in plain language, and outline options going forward. If a biopsy is recommended, we explain exactly what the procedure involves and how long it typically takes to receive results.
We also make sure patients understand their financial options before any procedure begins. Our practice accepts PPO plans, Medicaid, Medicare Advantage, TRICARE, and Veterans Affairs benefits, and we offer CareCredit and Cherry Financing for patients who prefer to spread out the cost of care. Our team is happy to answer questions about coverage during the scheduling process so there are no surprises on the day of treatment.
If you have noticed a sore, lump, or unusual patch in your mouth that has not resolved on its own, do not wait to have it checked. Our surgeons have the experience to evaluate soft-tissue changes quickly and thoroughly, and our team will guide you through every step, from the first exam to any necessary follow-up care.
To schedule a consultation with Goodove Oral Surgery & Dental Implants, reach out to us, and a member of our team will follow up to help find a time that works for you.
Dr. Goodove brings years of specialized oral surgery expertise to Virginia Beach and Chesapeake, serving as your trusted hometown oral surgeon. With operating privileges at multiple local hospitals, Dr. Goodove delivers patient-centered care backed by advanced training and a commitment to creating comfortable, anxiety-free experiences. His philosophy of accessibility and personal attention sets the foundation for the practice's reputation as "the doctor's doctor" in the community.
Dr. Zagursky is a retired Army veteran who continues to serve the community through exceptional oral surgery care. With extensive military experience and specialized training in oral and maxillofacial surgery, Dr. Zagursky brings discipline, precision, and a deep commitment to patient welfare to every procedure. His background working with diverse patient populations and dedication to the underserved makes him an invaluable part of the Goodove Oral Surgery team.
Trusted by referring dentists and families since 2008
Office Hours: Monday – Thursday: 9:00 am – 5:00 pm, Friday: 8:00 am – 2:00 pm
