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Is Oral Cancer Curable?

A cancer diagnosis can be overwhelming, but when it comes to oral cancer, there’s reason to be hopeful. Many cases can be successfully treated, especially when caught early. Still, the word “curable” can mean different things depending on the stage of the cancer and the type of treatment used. 

Our Point Pleasant Dentist breaks down what oral cancer is, what affects your chances of a cure, and the treatment options available below. 

Key Takeaways: 

  • Catching oral cancer early on makes it easier to treat and increases your chances of 
  • There are different treatments available, including surgery, radiation, and chemotherapy. 
  • Seeing a dentist regularly and checking your mouth yourself can help spot signs of oral cancer early on. 

What is Mouth Cancer?

Oral cancer, also known as mouth cancer, refers to malignancies that develop in the tissues of the mouth or throat. It can affect the lips, tongue, cheeks, gums, or the roof and floor of the mouth. 

The primary risk factors for developing oral cancer include tobacco use, excessive alcohol consumption, and human papillomavirus (HPV) infection. According to the American Cancer Society, men are statistically more likely to be diagnosed than women, and certain demographics, such as Caucasians, show higher incidence rates. 


Is Oral Cancer Curable?

The short answer is, it depends. While there’s no one-size-fits-all cure for cancer in general, many cases of oral cancer can be effectively treated, especially when it’s caught early. The prognosis largely depends on the stage at which the cancer is diagnosed. 

If the cancer is still in one spot, the chances of successful treatment are significantly higher. However, as the tumor progresses to more advanced stages, the treatment becomes more challenging, and the odds of complete remission are less likely.


Stages of Oral Cancer and How They’re Treated

Oral cancer is classified into stages that indicate how far the cancer has spread. These stages help doctors decide the best way to treat it.

Stage 0: Carcinoma in Situ

This is the earliest stage, where the cancer cells are only on the surface of the mouth tissues. Treatment typically involves surgical options such as Mohs surgery or thin resection to remove just the affected area. Mohs surgery is a precise technique where thin layers of tissue are removed and examined one at a time until no cancer cells remain. 

After treatment, regular check-ups are crucial to ensure the cancer doesn’t return.


Stages I and II

In these stages, the cancer has grown deeper into the mouth tissues but hasn’t spread to nearby lymph nodes yet. Surgery is usually the main way to remove the tumor, sometimes followed by radiation therapy to eliminate any remaining cancer cells. Chemotherapy may also be considered for larger tumors.


Stages III and IVA

At this point, the cancer has spread to nearby tissues and possibly lymph nodes. Treatment is more aggressive and often includes surgery combined with chemotherapy and radiation. The goal is to remove as much cancer as possible while trying to protect the surrounding healthy tissue. 


Stages IVB and IVC

At these advanced stages, the cancer has spread and may be affecting other parts of the body. Treatment usually focuses on managing symptoms and may include chemotherapy, radiation, or immunotherapy. While it might not be possible to cure the cancer fully, these treatments can help improve your quality of life and possibly extend life.


Can Oral Cancer Be Cured Without Surgery?

While surgery is one of the most common treatments for oral cancer, it’s not the only option, especially for patients who can’t have surgery because of other health issues. 

  • Radiation Therapy: Radiation therapy uses high-energy beams to target and destroy cancer cells. It can be effective for smaller tumors or as a follow-up treatment after surgery to eliminate residual cancer cells.  
  • Chemotherapy: Chemotherapy involves the use of drugs to kill cancer cells and can be administered orally or intravenously. This treatment may be used alone or in combination with radiation therapy to shrink tumors before surgery or to address remaining cancer post-surgery.  
  • Targeted Therapy and Immunotherapy: These newer treatments focus on attacking specific characteristics of cancer cells or aiding the body’s immune response to cancer. They may be suitable for advanced cases or if the cancer returns and doesn’t respond to regular treatments.

How Fast Does Oral Cancer Spread?

Oral cancer doesn’t always spread at the same rate; it depends on the type of cancer and the person’s overall health. It generally tends to grow at a moderate pace compared to other cancers. Some types may spread faster, especially if the tumor is in an area with a strong blood supply or if the immune system is weakened. 

Catching it early through regular dental visits and paying attention to changes in your mouth can make all the difference in treatment and recovery. 


What Does Mouth Cancer Look Like?

Some common symptoms to watch for include sores in the mouth that don’t heal, unusual lumps or thick spots, white or red patches, difficulty swallowing, or the feeling that something is stuck in your throat. 


What Can Be Mistaken for Oral Cancer?

Some conditions can look a lot like oral cancer, which can sometimes lead to confusion or misdiagnosis. These include:

  • Canker Sores: Small, painful ulcers that usually heal on their own within a week or two. 
  • Oral Thrush: A fungal infection that causes white patches in the mouth and can feel sore or irritated. 
  • Leukoplakia: Thick white patches that often form from irritation; they’re usually harmless but should be monitored, as they can sometimes become cancerous. 

Have Questions for Us? Get In Touch Today!

From surgery to less invasive approaches, there are many ways to manage and, in some cases, even cure oral cancer. If you’re worried about symptoms or just want to stay proactive with your oral health, call 732-714-1030 or contact our Point Pleasant office today to schedule a consultation! 

About the Author: Dr. Joseph Zicchino provides a wide array of cosmetic dentistry services, including Invisalign® Clear Aligners, at his practice in Point Pleasant, NJ. He earned his dental degree from NYU Dental School and established Coastal Dental Group in 2004. For more information or to schedule an appointment, call (732) 714-1030!