The Treatment of Oral Cancer: An Overview for Dental Professionals

Cancer is a broad term for a class of diseases characterized by the uncontrolled growth of abnormal cells in the body. Oral cancer is one of the cancers that specifically refers to cancer that develops in the mouth or throat. Though it is not as common as other types of cancer, it is still one of the most dangerous as it can be very difficult to detect in its early stages. Consulting a dental professional to help you identify the symptoms and proceed with oral cancer treatment is the only possible way to live a healthy life. 

Symptoms

Oral cancer can affect any part of the mouth, including the lips, tongue, gums, and throat. Symptoms may include a sore that does not heal, a lump or growth in the mouth, bleeding, numbness, or difficulty swallowing. If you experience any of these symptoms, it is important to see a doctor as soon as possible as oral cancer is most treatable in its early stages.

Risk Factors

There are several risk factors for developing oral cancer, including smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, and infection. However, it is important to remember that anyone can develop oral cancer, regardless of lifestyle choices. If you are concerned about your risk, talk to your doctor about ways to reduce risk or catch the disease early.

Overview of Dental Professionals on Oral Cancer

Dental professionals play an important role in the detection and management of oral cancer. They are often the first health care providers to examine the mouth and lips for signs of cancer. They are also trained to perform oral cancer screenings, which can help detect cancer at an early stage. If oral cancer is suspected, dental professionals can refer patients to a specialist for further evaluation.

Dentists can also guide on how to reduce the risk of developing oral cancer. For example, they can advise patients to quit smoking and avoid excessive exposure of the lips to the sun. They can also provide information on the importance of maintaining good oral hygiene and consuming a healthy diet. By raising awareness of oral cancer and taking steps to reduce the risk of developing the disease, dental professionals can help improve the overall health of their patients.

Treatment or Therapy for Oral Cancer

There are several treatment options available for oral cancer, depending on the stage and severity of the disease. In the early stages, treatment may involve surgery to remove the cancerous tissue, followed by radiation therapy or chemotherapy. More advanced cases may require a combination of these treatments. In addition, patients may also undergo targeted therapy or immunotherapy to help the body fight cancer.

Surgery

Surgery is the most common treatment for oral cancer. The type of cancer surgery depends on the size and location of the tumor. Surgery helps remove the tumor and a margin of healthy tissues around it. 

If the tumor is small, the surgeon may do a minimally invasive procedure, such as laser surgery or surgery with a thin, lighted tube called an endoscope. If the tumor is larger, the surgeon will perform a more extensive operation. The surgeon will make an incision in the mouth and remove the tumor and a margin of healthy tissue. Surgery may be followed by radiation therapy or chemotherapy.

Radiation Therapy 

Radiation therapy is a treatment option for oral cancer. This therapy uses high-energy waves to destroy cancer cells and shrink tumors. The therapy can be administered externally, through a machine that directs the radiation to the cancerous area, or internally, through the placement of radioactive materials in or near the cancerous tissue. Radiation therapy can be used alone or in combination with other Types of cancer treatments, such as surgery or chemotherapy.

Chemotherapy 

Chemotherapy can be given as a pill or it can be given through a needle into a vein. The side effects of this treatment vary from person to person and can cause side effects, such as hair loss, nausea, and fatigue. 

Oral cancer is a serious disease, but it is also one that is highly treatable if detected early. If you are experiencing any symptoms, don’t hesitate to see the best cancer doctor in India. And remember, even if you don’t have any risk factors, it’s important to be vigilant about your oral health.