Mouth Cancer Treatment, Muswell Hill, London

Mouth Cancer Treatment

Most people have heard of cancer affecting parts of the body such as the lungs or breasts. However, cancer can occur in the mouth, where the disease can affect the lips, tongue, cheeks and throat.

Most cases of mouth cancer are linked to tobacco and alcohol. Alcohol increases the risk of mouth cancer, and if tobacco and alcohol are consumed together the risk is even greater.

Mouth cancer can appear in different forms and can affect all parts of the mouth, tongue and lips. Sometimes a white or red patch in the mouth may develop into cancer, but most often cancer appears as a painless ulcer that does not clear up. It is important to visit your dentist if these areas do not clear up within two weeks.

The mouth is easy to inspect so it is easy to spot early signs of cancer. If your dentist suspects that your mouth shows signs of cancer, they will refer you to a consultant at the local hospital, who will carry out a thorough examination of your mouth and throat. A biopsy may be performed, this procedure will gather a small sample of cells from the affected area. These cells will then be examined under a microscope to see whether they are cancerous or not.

If the cells are cancerous, more tests and overall health checks will be carried out. These tests will help decide what course of treatment is needed. Treatment may come in the form of surgery, radiotherapy, chemotherapy or a mixture of them all, depending on the nature and stage of the cancer.

If mouth cancer is detected early, the chances of a complete cure are good. However, too many people come forward too late, hence the importance of visiting the dentist and having regular examinations.

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