When people hear about oral surgery, the initial impression has something to do with a special type of tooth extraction or any other things related to correct defects of the mouth region. But oral surgery is more than minor procedures.

Oral and maxillofacial surgery pertains to other procedures that are more serious, such as oral cancer. Oral pathology is the specific branch of dentistry concerned with oral cancer detection and treatment.

WHAT IS ORAL CANCER?

Just as other types of cancer usually begin with a growth or pain that does not go away, the same goes for oral cancer. The areas included for oral type of cancer are the tongue, lips, floor of the mouth, cheeks, soft and hard palate, sinuses, and throat. Although treatable, they can also be life threatening if they are not detected and treated in the early stages.

HOW AN ORAL SURGEON CAN HELP

Once we detect cancer, we examine it to determine what stage it is. The stage is relevant so we will know what type of treatments we can offer you. With regard to oral cancer, there are specialists based on the location of the cancer growth.

After the cancer is found and staged, your doctor will discuss treatment choices with you. Normally, the first step of treatment is of course surgery, which will be followed by radiation and chemotherapy. Sometimes a combination of radiation and chemotherapy is needed.

If you suspect you have oral cancer, it is best to come to us so we can confirm your suspicions. Early detection is key, as we have said. In case you already know that you have a form of oral cancer, feel free to come to us so we can give a second opinion and discuss with you possible treatment options. We will be more than willing to provide all the details and help you need.