Oral Cancer

Dr. Kiran Satashia, DMD

More than 40,000 people will be diagnosed with oral cancer in 2012. It may come in the form of mouth, tongue, sinus, tonsil or throat cancer. Since 2007 the number of diagnosed cases of oral cancer has been steadily rising. People may think that oral cancer is rare, but one hundred people are diagnosed daily in the United States, and every hour of every day one person dies from the disease.

The good news is that if detected in the early stages, those diagnosed can have a 90% survival rate. Most times, however, these cancers are found in the later stages. Although preventative screenings are simple, people are unaware that the disease is so prevalent so they don't take advantage of simple screenings. This is the primary reason why over half the people diagnosed pass way within five years of their diagnosis. Dr. Kiran Satashia, DMD can do preventative oral cancer screenings during your normal dental visit.

During your visit, Dr. Kiran Satashia, DMD might feel for any lumps or tissue changes in your neck, head, face, and mouth. They will also look for unusual sores, discolored tissue or red and white patches inside the mouth. If there is anything unusual, you may receive a brush test after which a small sample of the tissue will be analyzed in a lab. If there is a bigger mass of suspicious tissue, a biopsy with a scalpel may have to be done. In order to do a scalpel biopsy, a local anesthesia will be administered.

If you are diagnosed with oral cancer, your doctor will work with you to create a proactive treatment plan. Surgery, chemotherapy, or other treatments can be used to combat the cancerous cells and keep them from spreading. You should get an oral cancer screening every three years if you are fewer than forty and yearly if over forty. These tests are vital as early detection of oral cancer, can stop further spreading and save your life.

You can be proactive by performing monthly self-tests on yourself, Look for red and white patches inside your mouth. If you have a sore that will not heal, unusual lumps, or unexplained bleeding in your mouth call (215) 957-0700 to make an appointment.

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