Celebrating 30 years of Trustworthy Expertise, Dr. Kian Djawdan is a Board Certified Implantologist and considered an expert in implant dentistry.
How Your Oral Surgeon Can Help When You Have Suspected Oral Cancer
Posted on 9/16/2024 by Kian Djawdan DMD
Oral cancer is a serious disease that can affect anyone. It's important to be aware of the signs and symptoms so you can seek treatment early. If you suspect you have oral cancer, your first step should be to see an oral surgeon.
What is an Oral Surgeon?
An oral surgeon is a dental professional who specializes in the surgical treatment of diseases and conditions of the mouth, jaws, and face. They have extensive training in oral surgery, including oral cancer surgery.
Oral surgeons are experts in oral care and are well-equipped to diagnose and treat oral cancer. They can perform biopsies to confirm a diagnosis, remove cancerous tumors, and reconstruct the mouth and jaw after surgery.
How Can an Oral Surgeon Help When You Have Suspected Oral Cancer?
If you suspect you have oral cancer, it's important to see an oral surgeon as soon as possible. They can:
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Perform a thorough examination of your mouth, including a physical exam and imaging tests, to assess the extent of the cancer.
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Take a biopsy to confirm the diagnosis. A biopsy involves removing a small sample of tissue from the suspicious area and examining it under a microscope.
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Develop a treatment plan based on the stage and severity of your cancer. This may include surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, or a combination of these treatments.
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Perform surgery to remove the cancerous tumor and surrounding tissue. This may involve removing part of the jawbone, tongue, or other structures in the mouth.
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Reconstruct the mouth and jaw after surgery to restore function and aesthetics. This may involve bone grafts, dental implants, or other procedures.
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Provide follow-up care to monitor your recovery and prevent recurrence of the cancer. This may include regular checkups, imaging tests, and other treatments as needed.
What are the Signs and Symptoms of Oral Cancer?
It's important to be aware of the signs and symptoms of oral cancer so you can seek treatment early. These include:
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A sore or irritation in the mouth that doesn't heal
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A white or red patch on the gums, tongue, or inside of the cheek
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A lump or thickening in the cheek or neck
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Difficulty swallowing or chewing
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Numbness or pain in the mouth or face
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A change in the way your teeth fit together
Conclusion
If you suspect you have oral cancer, don't hesitate to see an oral surgeon. They are experts in oral care and are well-equipped to diagnose and treat this serious disease. Early diagnosis and treatment are essential for improving your chances of a successful outcome.
Dental Blog - Annapolis, MD • Djawdan Center Dr. Kian Djawdan has created this informative blog to help educate the community. Click to read out latest blog posts. Djawdan Center for Implant and Restorative Dentistry, 133 Defense Highway STE 210, Annapolis, MD 21401 • (443) 569-8764 • smileannapolis.com • 11/21/2024 • Page Keywords: Dental Implants Annapolis MD •
Oral cancer is a serious disease that can affect anyone. It's important to be aware of the signs and symptoms so you can seek treatment early. If you suspect you have oral cancer, your first step should be to see an oral surgeon.