Dr. Richard J. Vargo specializes in clinical oral and maxillofacial pathology. He offers diagnosis and management of oral diseases, including mouth sores and inflammation, soft tissue growths, yeast and fungal infections, diminished saliva production and dry mouth, and precancerous lesions. He performs soft tissue biopsies, steroid therapy for oral ulcers and inflammatory conditions, and oral cancer screenings.

Dr. Vargo's research interests include oral ulcers, non-invasive detection of oral cancer, dental abnormalities, oral manifestations of HIV and syphilis, and oral effects of cannabis use.

Dr. Vargo is an adjunct assistant professor in the Department of Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery at Saint Louis University School of Medicine. He also serves in the Department of Dermatology, Division of Dermatopathology, Oral Biopsy Service.

His professional memberships include: American Board of Oral and Maxillofacial Pathology, American Academy of Oral and Maxillofacial Pathology, American Academy of Oral Medicine, International College of Dentists, Omicron Kappa Upsilon National Dental Honor Society, North American Society of Head and Neck Pathology, American Dental Association, Missouri Dental Association, and Greater St. Louis Dental Society.