Oral Cancer

Oral cancer is a serious condition characterized by the growth of malignant cells in the tissues of the oral cavity. In this article, we will discuss the essential aspects of oral cancer, including its definition, different types, causes, diagnosis, prevention, risk factors, and treatment.

What is oral cancer?

Oral cancer refers to the development of malignant cells in the oral cavity, including the lips, tongue, gums, cheeks, and palate. If left untreated, it can spread to other parts of the body.

Types of oral cancer:

There are different types of oral cancer, including:
1. Squamous cell carcinoma: This is the most common type of oral cancer, affecting the mucous membranes of the oral cavity.
2. Sarcoma: This form of oral cancer develops in the soft tissues of the mouth, such as muscles or blood vessels.
3. Salivary gland carcinoma: This type of oral cancer occurs in the salivary glands of the oral cavity.

Causes of oral cancer:

The exact causes of oral cancer are not fully understood, but there are several risk factors that can increase the likelihood of developing oral cancer. These include smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, exposure to sunlight, poor oral hygiene, an unhealthy diet, and the human papillomavirus (HPV).

Diagnosis oral cancer:

In the dental practice, we screen for suspicious spots in the mouth during routine check-ups. We look for abnormalities such as ulcers, red or white patches, thickened tissues, or other unusual changes. If we identify a suspicious spot, we will refer you to an oral surgeon for a definitive diagnosis. A biopsy may be performed, where a small tissue sample is taken and examined under a microscope.

Preventing oral cancer:

While it may not always be possible to prevent oral cancer entirely, there are steps you can take to reduce the risk. Some preventive measures include quitting smoking, limiting alcohol consumption, avoiding excessive sun exposure without protection, maintaining good oral hygiene, and having a healthy diet with plenty of fruits and vegetables.

Risk factors for oral cancer:

Several risk factors can increase the chances of developing oral cancer. Some important risk factors include smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, unprotected sun exposure, poor oral hygiene, an unhealthy diet, and HPV infection.

Treating oral cancer:

The treatment of oral cancer depends on the stage and location of the tumor, as well as the overall health of the patient. Treatment options may include surgical removal of the tumor, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, or a combination of these approaches. A multidisciplinary team of specialists will develop a treatment plan tailored to the individual needs of the patient.

Registration

You are warmly welcome as a new patient. Our goal is to keep your smile bright and healthy for a lifetime. We achieve this through a combination of high-quality dentistry and a personalized approach.

Emergency

If you have an emergency, please contact us immediately during our regular business hours. You can reach us at +31 20 6139501 or WhatsApp us on +31 653558537 to schedule an appointment. Outside of our business hours, please contact the nearest general emergency service.

Appointment booking

To schedule an appointment, please call us on +31 20 613 9501. Should we not be reachable, you can WhatsApp us or send an e-mail with your contact details and date of birth. We will get back to you as soon as possible to schedule the appointment over the phone.

Opening hours

Monday08.30 – 17.00 hour
Tuesday08.30 – 17.00 hour
Wednesday13.00 – 18.00 hour
Thursday13.00 – 18.00 hour
Friday08.30 – 17.00 hour
SaturdayClosed
SundayClosed

Registration

Please sign up here as a new patient, and we will contact you as soon as possible.

During your intake, you will personally meet the dentist at our practice. During this initial visit, a comprehensive oral examination will be conducted, which often includes taking photographs of your teeth. Following the examination, you can discuss any specific desires or questions you may have directly with the dentist.