09
May
Your guide to oral cancer screenings, diagnosis, and treatments
Oral cancer is a serious condition that needs to be caught early enough for successful intervention. Sandy Springs, Georgia, area patients who require screening to determine if oral cancer is present are encouraged to connect with the Tooth Architect Dental Care team. Our dentist can perform screenings, offer a definitive diagnosis, and recommend treatment solutions for each patient who visits her office. Let’s look at some frequently asked questions about oral cancer.
What is oral cancer?
Oral cancer is a unique type of cancer that occurs only in the mouth (oral cavity) or throat. It typically appears as a sore or growth that does not heal and can affect any part of the oral cavity, including the outer lips, gums, tongue, inside of the cheeks, or roof or floor of the mouth. This condition is evaluated and treated at Tooth Architect Dental Care, where patients receive screenings and guidance on oral cancer detection and prevention.
Who is most at risk of developing mouth or oral cancer?
While individuals of any age or gender can develop this type of cancer, several factors may increase their risk. These include some of the following:
- Tobacco use (smoking cigarettes, cigars, pipes).
- Heavy alcohol consumption.
- Excessive sun exposure to the lips.
- Human papillomavirus (HPV) infection.
- A poor diet lacking fruits and vegetables.
- Family history of oral cancer.
What are some common symptoms of oral cancer?
Typical signs of oral cancer include:
- White or red patches located in the mouth.
- Lumps or thickened skin inside the mouth.
- Ulcers and/or persistent sores in the mouth that do not heal.
- Trouble speaking and swallowing.
- Changes in how dentures fit.
How is oral cancer diagnosed?
There are several methods used to diagnose oral cancer, including:
- Visual examination. A thorough dental professional examination of the oral cavity and throat can help identify abnormalities.
- Biopsy. A small tissue sample may be taken from the area and examined under a microscope to check for cancer.
- Imaging tests. X-rays, CT scans, and MRI scans can help identify the location and size of tumors in the mouth or throat.
Real Patients, Real Results
What are some of the treatment options available for oral cancer?
The recommended treatment for oral cancer depends on diverse factors, such as the stage and area of the cancer and an individual’s overall health. Treatment may include:
- Surgery. This involves removing the malignant lesion along with any affected surrounding tissue.
- Chemotherapy. This treatment uses medication to kill the cancer cells or stop them from growing, mostly in throat cancer.
- Radiation therapy. High-energy beams are precisely aimed at the tumor area to destroy cancer cells in throat cancer.
Is mouth cancer curable?
Oral cancer is a highly treatable type of cancer if caught early. The five-year survival rate for those diagnosed with oral cancer that is diagnosed and treated in the early stages is around 80-90%. However, if the cancer spreads to other parts of the body or is diagnosed later, the survival rate decreases significantly. That’s why you will want to visit our team regularly and get screened for oral cancer.
Call Our Office for More Information
New Patients: (404) 666-8066 | Existing Patients: (404) 255-7047
Request An Appointment
Who can I contact to schedule an oral cancer screening?
Oral cancer screening is crucial and should occur at every dental visit to Tooth Architect Dental Care. If you need a visit, call (404) 666-8066 to request time with Dr. Talebi.
Share this Article
Dr. Shiva Talebi
Dr. Shiva Talebi combines her architectural background with a passion for dentistry, offering a unique approach to patient care. She graduated with the highest honors as a Gamma Beta Phi Honors Society member with recognition in Who’s Who Among American Students from Georgia Tech and earned her DMD from the Dental College of Georgia. Dr. Talebi emphasizes holistic dentistry, prioritizing patient comfort and overall well-being. An active member of the ADA and HDA and recipient of the Hinman Scholarship, she remains committed to rigorous continuing education. She is passionate about community service and volunteers at the Ben Massell Dental Clinic.