Oral Cancer Screenings and Surgery

Oral cancer may not be as well known as other forms of cancer, but that doesn’t make it any less dangerous. Oral cancer screenings are vital to detect any precancerous or cancerous conditions in the mouth before they progress to an advanced stage of the disease. An oral cancer screening is a quick procedure that involves visual and touch examinations to assess the inside of your mouth. Some dentists use additional tests, such as dye or ultraviolet light. If your dentist discovers any abnormal lesions, a small tissue sample can be collected and sent to the lab for more thorough testing.

Risks and Signs of Oral Cancer

Some people have a higher risk of developing oral cancer, sometimes at no fault of their own. Causes of oral cancer include:

  • Tobacco use of any kind, such as cigarettes, cigars, pipes, chewing tobacco, snuff, dip and vaping
  • Heavy alcohol consumption
  • Family history of cancer
  • Human papillomavirus (HPV)
  • Significant sun exposure
  • Poor diet

There are certain symptoms and signs of oral cancer to look for. Some of these include:

  • Red or white spots or sores anywhere in the oral cavity
  • A sore that bleeds easily or does not heal
  • A lump, thickening, or rough spot
  • Pain, tenderness, or numbness anywhere in the mouth or on the lips
  • Difficulty chewing, swallowing, speaking, or moving the jaw or tongue

Surgical Treatment of Oral Cancer

If you’ve recently been diagnosed with oral cancer, there are several treatment options available to you. These include:

  • Glossectomy: The removal of partial or larger portions of the tongue
  • Mandibulectomy: The partial removal of the jawbone when a tumor is too close or attached to the bone
  • Maxillectomy: The removal of the bones that make up the hard palate or nasal sinuses
  • Reconstructive surgery: The transplantation of tissue from one area in your body, such as your forearm, thigh, or abdomen, to the affected area of your mouth
  • Dental implants: An additional procedure that can be done during certain mouth surgeries, so that a separate surgery is not required
  • Lymph node removal: Oral cancers often spread to the lymph nodes in the neck and can be removed during oral surgery. The purpose of this removal is to reduce the chance of the cancer returning in the future. Lymph node removal is commonly recommended for cancers that infect the tongue, floor of the mouth, or lower gums.

Talk to your dentist today about scheduling routine oral cancer screenings. You will have the best chance for a full recovery if oral cancer is detected early.

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Hours of Operation

Our Regular Schedule

Monday:

7:30 am-4:00 pm

Tuesday:

7:30 AM-4:00 pm

Wednesday:

7:30 am-4:00 pm

Thursday:

8:20 am-6:00 pm

Friday:

Closed

Saturday:

Closed

Sunday:

Closed

Testimonials

  • "Even though I was 30 minutes late for my appt , everyone was very kind. Danielle and Shay are delightful additions to a great team.!"
    Joyce D.
  • "As always my experience with Dr. Tretter and staff was very positive. Everyone is pleasant and friendly."
    Anonymous
  • "Always a very good experience with Dr. Tretter and his staff."
    Stephen P .
  • "I have always had a positive experience at Dr. Tretter’s office. The staff is consistently kind, courteous and professional. Dr. Tretter is a wonderful person and a phenomenal dentist. I highly recommend him!"
    Mary N.
  • "Dr. Tretter is the best dentist I've ever had. Every time I go to have work done, I feel relaxed because I know I am in good hands. I cannot imagine a more competent dentist. All the others on the staff are very professional and extremely pleasant. I know it's hard to believe, but I actually have fun whenever I visit the practice. Dr. Tretter keeps up with the latest dental technology. A crown is completed in one visit, about 2 hours long."
    Nancy Blodget
  • "I was again very impressed and pleased with my appointment this am. The professionalism,the super safe set up during the Corona times. Everyone in the office are caring, and on top of any potential issues..10 Stars !!!"
    Claudia Caffrey