How Oral Cancer Gets Treated

Posted on 6/2/2025 by Pacific Oral and Facial Surgery Center

Dentist explaining oral cancer screening results on a tablet to a female patient, emphasizing early detection and prevention.

Oral cancer, a disease that affects the mouth and throat, can be a frightening diagnosis. However, with early detection and proper treatment, the chances of successful recovery are high. This article aims to provide you with information about the different treatment options available for oral cancer, helping you understand what to expect and make informed decisions.

Diagnosis and Staging

Before discussing treatment options, it's important to understand how oral cancer is diagnosed and staged. Diagnosis typically involves a physical examination, imaging tests like X-rays or CT scans, and a biopsy to confirm the presence of cancer cells. Once diagnosed, the cancer is staged based on its size, spread, and other factors. This staging helps determine the most appropriate treatment approach.

Treatment Options

The specific treatment plan for oral cancer depends on several factors, including the stage of the cancer, its location, and the patient's overall health. Here's an overview of the main treatment options:

Surgery: This is the most common treatment for oral cancer, especially in the early stages. The type of surgery depends on the size and location of the tumor. It may involve removing the cancerous tissue along with a margin of healthy tissue, reconstructing the affected area, and removing nearby lymph nodes to check for cancer spread.

Radiation therapy: This treatment uses high-energy beams to kill cancer cells. It can be used before surgery to shrink the tumor or after surgery to destroy any remaining cancer cells. Radiation therapy can be delivered externally using a machine or internally through implants placed near the tumor.

Chemotherapy: This treatment uses powerful drugs to kill cancer cells throughout the body. It is often used in combination with surgery or radiation therapy, particularly for advanced-stage cancers. Chemotherapy can be administered through injection or pills.

Targeted therapy: This newer type of treatment uses drugs that target specific molecular abnormalities in cancer cells. These drugs are typically used in conjunction with other therapies and can be effective against certain types of oral cancer.

Immunotherapy: This treatment helps the body's own immune system fight cancer cells. It is a newer treatment option for oral cancer and is typically used in combination with other therapies.

Restorative Dentistry: After cancer treatment, some patients may require restorative dentistry procedures to rebuild damaged or missing teeth and oral structures. This can help restore function and improve appearance.

Importance of Oral Care

Regular oral care before and after treatment is crucial for maintaining oral health and preventing further complications. This includes brushing and flossing regularly, avoiding tobacco use, and seeing your dentist for regular checkups and cleanings.

Conclusion

While a diagnosis of oral cancer can be overwhelming, it's important to remember that there are effective treatment options available. Early detection and proper treatment significantly increase the chances of successful recovery. By understanding the different treatment options and taking steps to maintain good oral health, you can play an active role in your journey towards recovery.

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The surgical specialty of oral and maxillofacial surgery requires up to six additional years of hospital based surgical and anesthesia training beyond dental school.

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Dental Blog | Livermore & Tracy CA | Michael Beckley DDS
For more information on oral surgery, and to schedule your consultation, call Pacific Oral & Facial Surgery Center in Livermore and Tracy today.
Pacific Oral and Facial Surgery Center, 1133 E Stanley Blvd #215, Livermore, CA 94550 • 925-290-7727 • pacificofs.com • 6/16/2025 • Key Phrases: oral surgeon Livermore •