Oral Cancer
Overview
Oral Cancer develops when abnormal cells grow and multiply out of control, eventually becoming a mass or tumor. Tumors are only cancerous if they’re malignant, which means they continue to grow and overtake surrounding tissue. Oral Cancer includes the mouth and throat.
Risk Factors
Some risk factors are preventable and others are not. For instance, tobacco use is the biggest cause of Oral Cancer.
- Tobacco use
- Alcohol consumption
- Sun exposure to lips
- Family history
- Older in age
- Male
Symptoms
Regular checkups with your doctor are vital for early detection of oral cancer. If you believe you have any of the symptoms listed below, contact your doctor right away.
- Sore in mouth or on lip that won’t heal
- Bleeding in your mouth
- Lump in your neck
- Hoarseness or change in voice
- An earache
- Difficult or painful to swallow
- Loose teeth
- Continual sore throat
- Swelling of the jaw
- White patches (leukoplakia)
- Red patches (erythroplakia)
- Mixed Red & White patches (erythroleukoplakia)
Diagnostic Tests
If your doctor suspects Oral Cancer, you may be given diagnostic tests to determine if you have Oral Cancer and if so what stage the cancer is at.
- Biopsy
- Endoscopy
- Laryngoscopy
- X-rays
- CT scan
- MRI
Treatment
Our compassionate team of oncologists, radiologists, surgical oncologists and speech therapists strive to give not only the best care, but also exceptional patient support. You will discuss treatment options with your doctor based on the type, stage and whether it’s spread and make a decision together.
- Surgery
- Radiation Therapy
- Chemotherapy
- Speech Therapy
