Oral Cancer Treatment in Hot Springs
Our oral surgeons are experienced and highly-skilled in the treatment and surgical removal of many kinds of oral cancer. Our compassionate and caring surgical team is here to guide you through the treatment process step-by-step. You don’t have to feel alone, we’re here to answer your questions and help you develop a comprehensive and aggressive care plan.
Oral cancer can be detected through an annual screening performed by your oral surgeon, or through the performance of monthly self-exams.
How to Perform an Oral Cancer Self-Examination
Before you perform your self-examination, be sure to thoroughly wash your hands to prevent the introduction of bacteria to your oral cavity.
- Remove any dentures or other removable objects from your mouth
- Inspect the inside of your lips and along your gums both visually and with your fingertip
- Tilt your head back and inspect the roof of your mouth (If you cannot get good lighting, try taking a picture with your phone)
- Check the inside of your cheeks
- Look at and feel all surfaces of your tongue
- Test your neck and underneath your lower jaw for lumps or enlarged glands
Possible Symptoms of Oral Cancer
As you inspect your mouth, watch for any of the following symptoms:
- Red and white patches
- A sore or ulcer that has not healed and bleeds easily
- An abnormal lump or thickening of the oral tissues
- Chronic sore throat or hoarseness
- Difficulty chewing or swallowing
- A lump or mass in your neck
If you find any of these symptoms during your self-examination, contact Arkansas Oral & Maxillofacial Surgeons as soon as possible. The more quickly cancer is detected and treated, the more likely you’ll be to experience a positive outcome.
Treatment Options for Oral Cancer
If oral cancer is detected, your treatment plan will depend on the type, location, and stage of your cancer. Your medical team may use any combination of the following treatments to help you battle oral or pharyngeal cancer:
- Chemotherapy
- Radiation therapy
- Targeted therapy
- Surgery
If your cancer is detected early enough, it is likely that surgery will be recommended. This removes the cancerous cells before they have a chance to spread further and, hopefully, will remove the cancer completely. Depending on the location and size of the tumor, you may require surgical intervention in more than one area of your throat or mouth.
Your oral surgeon will talk to you about your treatment options and together you will decide on a personalized treatment plan that works for you.
If you are seeking oral cancer treatment in Hot Springs, contact Arkansas Oral & Maxillofacial Surgeons as soon as possible to schedule an appointment.