ORAL MEDICINE SPECIALIST

Dr Janina Christoforou is an Oral Medicine Specialist with expertise in the management of oral mucosal diseases and orofacial pain. She completed her specialist training in Western Australia, obtaining a Doctorate in Clinical Dentistry (Oral Medicine/Oral Pathology).

Dr Christoforou is a Fellow of several prestigious organisations, including the Pierre Fauchard Academy, Academy of Dentistry International, International College of Dentists, Royal Australasian College of Dental Surgeons, and the Oral Medicine Academy of Australasia.

She is a Senior Lecturer at the University of Western Australia, where she is actively involved in teaching and research. Dr Christoforou also holds consultant positions within the Department of Radiation Oncology at Sir Charles Gairdner Hospital and the Maxillofacial Department at Perth Children's Hospital, while continuing to practise privately.

Alongside her clinical and academic commitments, Dr Christoforou has contributed to numerous journal publications and book chapters. She is also dedicated to community service, volunteering with organisations that provide oral medicine care to disadvantaged populations.

Her special interests include the prevention and management of oral cancer and its sequelae, oral mucosal diseases, and orofacial pain.

Many oral conditions present with seemingly routine signs and symptoms, yet some may be the first indication of significant systemic disease, malignancy, infection or other pathology.

This presentation will use clinical examples to explore the key oral medicine red flags that should prompt further investigation, referral or urgent management.