Pathology is the study of the causes and effects of diseases in living organisms. In dentistry, pathology can refer to the study of diseases that affect the hard and soft tissues of the mouth and face.

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Hard tissue pathology specifically focuses on diseases or conditions that affect the teeth, jaws, and bone structures of the mouth and face. This includes conditions such as tooth decay, periodontal disease, jaw tumors, and fractures.

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Soft tissue pathology, on the other hand, deals with diseases or conditions that affect the soft tissues of the mouth and face, including the gums, tongue, cheeks, lips, and salivary glands. This includes conditions such as oral cancer, herpes simplex virus, and candidiasis (oral thrush).

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Pathology is an important field in dentistry as it helps in the diagnosis and treatment of various dental and oral diseases. Dentists and oral pathologists use various tools and techniques such as biopsies, imaging studies, and laboratory tests to evaluate and diagnose oral and dental diseases, and to develop appropriate treatment plans.