Oral cancer screening & treatment

Oral cancer can affect any part of the mouth, including the lips, tongue, cheeks, gums, and throat. Early detection is crucial for effective treatment and better outcomes. Oral cancer screening and treatment at Cosmosurge focuses on identifying potential signs of cancer early and offering personalized treatment plans to manage the disease. With the expertise of Dr. Aishwarya A. Gangawane, Cosmosurge offers comprehensive care, ensuring that patients receive the best possible outcomes through advanced diagnostic tools and cutting-edge treatments.

What is Oral Cancer?

Oral cancer refers to the growth of malignant cells in the tissues of the mouth or throat. It can develop in various areas, including the lips, gums, tongue, inner lining of the cheeks, the roof of the mouth, and the floor of the mouth. Early symptoms of oral cancer can be subtle, making regular screenings essential for early detection.

Common risk factors for oral cancer include smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, prolonged exposure to the sun (for lip cancer), and HPV (human papillomavirus) infection. Early diagnosis significantly improves the chances of successful treatment and recovery.

Importance of Oral Cancer Screening

Oral cancer screening is a simple but critical procedure that helps detect cancer in its early stages. Early detection not only improves survival rates but also allows for less invasive treatment options, reducing the impact on a patient's quality of life.

Early Detection Saves Lives: Oral cancer that is detected early has a much higher survival rate than cancer diagnosed in later stages.
Painless and Quick: Screening for oral cancer is a non-invasive and quick procedure that can easily be incorporated into regular dental check-ups.
Prevents Disease Progression: Identifying precancerous lesions or abnormal tissue changes early can prevent the development of full-blown cancer.

Signs and Symptoms of Oral Cancer

Some of the early signs and symptoms of oral cancer include:

Persistent sores in the mouth or on the lips that do not heal
Red or white patches in the mouth
Lumps, thickening, or rough spots in the oral cavity
Difficulty chewing, swallowing, or speaking
Unexplained bleeding in the mouth
Pain or numbness in the mouth or lips
Changes in voice or persistent hoarseness
Swelling or pain in the jaw or throat

If you experience any of these symptoms for more than two weeks, it’s important to seek an evaluation from a dental professional.

Oral Cancer Screening Process at Cosmosurge

At Cosmosurge, we offer thorough oral cancer screening as part of our routine dental examinations. The screening process involves the following steps:

Visual Examination:
- Dr. Aishwarya A. Gangawane will carefully examine the mouth, lips, gums, tongue, and throat for any visible signs of abnormalities, such as lesions, discoloration, or unusual growths.
Palpation:
- The doctor will also feel around the neck, jaw, and oral cavity to detect any lumps, bumps, or swollen areas that might indicate the presence of cancerous or precancerous tissue.
Velscope (Optional):
- We may use advanced diagnostic tools like the Velscope, which uses special light to detect changes in the tissues of the mouth that are invisible to the naked eye. This helps identify abnormal areas that may require further testing.
Biopsy (If Necessary):
- If any suspicious areas are detected, a biopsy may be recommended. A small tissue sample is taken and sent to a laboratory for further analysis to determine if cancerous cells are present.

Treatment Options for Oral Cancer

At Cosmosurge, we offer personalized treatment plans based on the stage and location of the cancer, as well as the overall health of the patient. Dr. Aishwarya A. Gangawane works closely with each patient to ensure the best possible care.

1. Surgery

Surgery is often the first step in treating oral cancer, especially if it is detected in the early stages. The goal of surgery is to remove the tumor and any surrounding tissues that may be affected by cancer.

Tumor Removal:
- The surgical removal of the tumor and some healthy tissue around it ensures that all cancerous cells are eliminated.
Neck Dissection:
- If cancer has spread to the lymph nodes in the neck, a neck dissection may be performed to remove affected lymph nodes.
Reconstructive Surgery:
- After removing the tumor, reconstructive surgery may be needed to restore function and appearance, especially if large areas of the mouth or jaw were involved.

2. Radiation Therapy

Radiation therapy uses high-energy beams to kill cancer cells and shrink tumors. It may be used as a standalone treatment or in combination with surgery.

When it’s used: Radiation is often recommended after surgery to eliminate any remaining cancer cells and reduce the risk of recurrence. It can also be used for patients who are not candidates for surgery.
Benefits: Non-invasive and effective at targeting cancer cells, especially in early-stage oral cancers.

3. Chemotherapy

Chemotherapy involves the use of drugs to kill cancer cells or stop their growth. It is often used in combination with surgery or radiation therapy to treat advanced-stage oral cancers.

When it’s used: Chemotherapy is usually recommended for more advanced stages of oral cancer or when cancer has spread to other parts of the body.
Benefits: Helps shrink tumors before surgery, making them easier to remove, and can also treat cancer that has spread beyond the oral cavity.

4. Targeted Therapy

Targeted therapy drugs specifically target cancer cells without affecting normal cells. This treatment works by interfering with molecules involved in cancer cell growth and survival.

When it’s used: Often used in conjunction with chemotherapy or radiation, especially in cases where specific gene mutations are driving cancer growth.
Benefits: Fewer side effects compared to traditional chemotherapy and better precision in attacking cancer cells.

5. Immunotherapy

Immunotherapy boosts the body’s natural defenses to fight cancer. This treatment involves using medications to enhance the immune system's ability to recognize and destroy cancer cells.

When it’s used: Typically used for advanced cancers or for patients who do not respond to other treatments.
Benefits: Helps harness the body’s immune system to attack and destroy cancer cells.

Recovery and Follow-Up Care

After oral cancer treatment, recovery and follow-up care are essential to ensure long-term health and prevent recurrence. At Cosmosurge, we provide comprehensive post-treatment support, which includes:

Regular Check-ups: Regular follow-up visits to monitor for any signs of recurrence and ensure the healing process is progressing well.
Rehabilitation: Depending on the type of treatment, patients may require rehabilitation, including speech therapy, swallowing therapy, or physical therapy to regain function.
Nutritional Guidance: Maintaining proper nutrition is crucial for recovery. Our team can provide guidance on diet and supplements to support healing after treatment.

Benefits of Early Oral Cancer Detection and Treatment

Higher Survival Rates: Oral cancer detected in its early stages has a much higher survival rate, with treatment success reaching up to 80-90%.
Less Invasive Treatment: Early detection allows for less invasive treatment options, reducing the impact on surrounding tissues and structures.
Improved Quality of Life: By catching cancer early, patients can avoid extensive surgeries and treatments, improving both their physical and emotional well-being.
Prevention of Disease Progression: Timely screening and treatment can prevent oral cancer from progressing to advanced stages, where it becomes more difficult to treat.

Why Choose Cosmosurge for Oral Cancer Screening and Treatment?

At Cosmosurge, we are committed to providing the highest level of care when it comes to oral cancer screening and treatment. Led by Dr. Aishwarya A. Gangawane, a highly skilled Maxillofacial Surgeon, Craniofacial Cosmetologist, Trichologist, and Cosmetic Surgeon, we offer advanced diagnostics and personalized treatment plans for each patient. Our team combines compassion with cutting-edge technology to ensure the best possible outcomes for those facing oral cancer.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. How often should I get an oral cancer screening?
It is recommended to have an oral cancer screening at least once a year, especially if you are at higher risk due to smoking, alcohol use, or HPV.

2. Is oral cancer curable?
When detected early, oral cancer is highly treatable and often curable. The key to successful treatment is early diagnosis and prompt intervention.

3. What are the side effects of oral cancer treatment?
Side effects vary depending on the treatment but may include dry mouth, difficulty swallowing, fatigue, and changes in taste. Our team will help manage these side effects to ensure your comfort during recovery.

Protect Your Health with Expert Oral Cancer Screening and Treatment

If you notice any unusual changes in your mouth or are due for a routine screening, Cosmosurge offers expert oral cancer screening and treatment to safeguard your health. Dr. Aishwarya A. Gangawane provides thorough screenings and personalized treatment plans to help detect cancer early and provide the best possible outcomes.