Tumors Head/Neck

Head and neck cancer is a group of cancers that typically begin in the squamous cells found in the mouth, throat, larynx, salivary glands, and nasal cavity. These types of cancers affect over 65,000 people every year in the United States. There are many symptoms that can indicate head and neck cancer, including the presence of tumors. At Pacific Oral & Facial Surgery Center, we can diagnose head and neck cancer and help to provide the treatment you need to get rid of it.

Types of Head and Neck Cancer

Head and neck cancers are classified based on the areas in which they occur. There are many different types. These include:

•	Oral cancer. This is the largest group of head and neck cancers and forms in the mouth.
•	Oropharyngeal cancer. This cancer occurs in the throat just behind the mouth. The region includes the base of the tongue, the very back of the roof of the mouth, and the tonsils.
•	Laryngeal cancer. This cancer affects the voice box, the tube-shaped organ involved in breathing, swallowing and talking. It is a type of throat cancer, and one of the most common types of head and neck cancers.
•	Nasal cavity cancer. This cancer affects the nasal cavities as well as air-filled spaces around them. It is an uncommon type of cancer.
•	Salivary gland cancer. This cancer affects the salivary glands. These glands provide your mouth with saliva, which keeps the mouth moist and helps to break down foods. Again, this type of cancer is uncommon.

Risk Factors for Head and Neck Cancer

Head and neck cancer can affect just about anyone. However, there are certain factors that can increase your risk. These factors include:

•	Tobacco and alcohol use.
•	Your sex. Men are more likely to develop these types of cancer than women.
•	Your age. Older adults are at greater risk.
•	Certain strains of human papilloma virus, or HPV.
•	Genetics.
•	Family history.
•	Poor nutrition.
•	Sun exposure.
•	Radiation exposure.

Symptoms of Head and Neck Cancer

There are some different symptoms that can point toward head and neck cancer. These symptoms include:

•	Red or white patches in your mouth.
•	Sores that refuse to heal.
•	Trouble eating, swallowing or breathing.
•	Persistent congestion.
•	Persistent sore throat.
•	A change in your voice, such as hoarseness.
•	Unexplained weight loss.
•	A lump, or tumor, in your nose, mouth, neck, or throat. These lumps may appear with or without pain.

Diagnosis of Tumors in the Head and Neck

When a tumor is detected, diagnosis is needed right away. Part of the diagnosis involves a thorough exam. We perform a visual examination — digital images, such as X-rays, CT scans, and MRIs. If these tests do not show that the tumor is benign, then a soft tissue biopsy is necessary. This is a procedure in which a small portion of the tumor is surgically removed to be examined under a microscope. We can see the cells in the tissue, including any precancerous or cancerous cells.

Treatment

The treatment provided for a tumor in your head or neck depends upon the diagnosis. Typically, these treatments involve chemotherapy, radiation, and surgery. In some cases, a combination of treatments may be recommended. With surgery, we can remove the tumor to eliminate cancer. If cancer has spread to lymph nodes, surgery can also be used to remove them as well.

Treating head and neck cancer early is crucial for stopping the progression of the disease and restoring your health. For more information, and to schedule your consultation, call Pacific Oral & Facial Surgery Center at 925-290-7727 today.

Board certified in Oral & Maxillofacial surgery

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

Contact Pacific Oral and Facial Surgery Center Today!

The first step to a healthier, happier you.

Hours:
Monday-Thursday 8:00 am - 5:00 pm
Friday 7:00 am - 1:00 pm

Livermore

1133 E. Stanley Blvd. #215 • Livermore, CA 94550
Phone: 925-290-7727 Fax: 925-294-8800
Email: info@pacificofs.com

Tracy

2160 W. Grant Line Road #160 • Tracy, CA 95377
Phone: 209-835-4600 • Fax: 209-835-8833
Email: info@pacificofs.com

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Tumors Head-Neck | Dental Implants, Oral Surgeon Livermore CA | Pacific Oral and Facial Surgery
For more information, 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, 10/12/2024, Page Phrases: oral surgeon Livermore,