When people think about cancer, many of them don’t know that there are various types of oral cancers. It’s not a pleasant diagnosis, but oral and maxillofacial surgeons are on the frontline of patient care during the treatment process. 

From the front desk to follow-up, our patients’ needs come first at the office of Greeley. We are at the forefront of research and use the latest diagnosis and treatment technology to help our patients deal with issues that require our services.

Early detection is essential. During your regular visits to your dentist, she (or he) will monitor your mouth for changes. You should do the same between visits. A suspicious area will be biopsied before a cancer diagnosis is made. Inspect these five areas regularly. 

Tongue: This cancer usually occurs on its surface in the mouth or throat. The most typical indications are bumps, thick patches, swollen areas, and problems swallowing and moving the tongue. 

Lips: It’s the most common type of mouth cancer because they’re constantly exposed to the sun. Smokers are vulnerable. Considered skin cancer and oral cancer, it can develop anywhere on the lower or upper lip. Inspect your lips for a whitish discoloration, tingling, pain, a sore that won’t heal and numbness. 

Gums: Gum cancer is sometimes misdiagnosed as gingivitis (a form of gum disease that causes inflamed gums). Look for bleeding, cracking, or patches that are dark, red or white. 

Throat: It develops as tumors in the throat, voice box, tonsils or windpipe. Throat cancers manifest themselves as an ongoing sore throat, a lump in the neck, trouble swallowing, voice changes, or aching or ringing in the ears. 

Jaw: This rare growth usually emerges as a tumor on the jawbone or in the soft tissues in the mouth and face. It can grow quickly, be painful, shift teeth and is usually in the molar area. 

Knowing the visual and physical symptoms of oral cancers will help you be on top of your oral health and lead to early detection. 

The office of Greeley uses state-of-the-art knowledge and technology to perform a complete array of procedures with the utmost care and precision. Please call us today to schedule an appointment.