Oral Cancer Treatment Tucson
Oral cancer can develop in any part of the oral cavity usually begin in the tongue and in the floor of the mouth. Almost all oral cancers begin in the flat squamous cells that cover the surfaces of the mouth, tongue, and lips. These cancers are called squamous cell carcinomas.
Oral cancer can take many forms and usually is diagnosed and found in the following areas:
- Lips
- Lining of your cheeks
- Salivary glands (glands that make saliva)
- Roof of your mouth (hard palate)
- Back of your mouth (soft palate and uvula)
- Floor of your mouth (area under the tongue)
- Gums and teeth
- Tongue
- Tonsils
For most patients a complete dental exam is necessary before cancer treatment begins. Doctors often advise to have dental work done before treatment begins.
Surgery
Surgery to remove any tumors in the mouth is the usual treatment and if there is evidence that the cancer has spread the lymph nodes in the neck will also be removed. If it’s spread spread to other muscles and tissues in the neck, the surgery may be more extensive.
Radiation Therapy
Radiation therapy, also called radiotherapy, is the use of high-energy rays to damage cancer cells and stop them from growing. Like surgery, radiation therapy is local therapy, affecting only the cells in the treated area. The energy may come from a large machine, or external radiation. Patients with large tumors may need both surgery and radiation therapy.
Chemotherapy
Chemotherapy is the use of drugs to kill cancer cells. Researchers are looking for effective drugs or drug combinations to treat oral cancer. They are also exploring ways to combine chemotherapy with other forms of cancer treatment to help destroy the tumor and prevent the disease from spreading.
Oral cancer is a serious disease and should be taken care of quickly. If you feel you may have some of the symptoms of gum disease please call us today at (520) 744-0700 and let’s schedule an appointment to come in and talk. This is a decision that could affect the rest of your life and well being.
