What is the treatment of oral cancer?
Treatment of oral cancer depends on the type of cancer and the stage of the cancer. In general, diagnosis and treatment during the early stages of cancer have a much better outcome. Oral cancer squamous cell carcinoma is generally treated by surgery and/or radiation therapy. Chemotherapy may also be used, particularly in patients with confirmed metastases to other tissues and organs. Oral health needs are addressed prior to cancer therapy. This is to minimise oral disease and post-therapeutic complications. It appears that up to 97% of patients require oral healthcare before treatment of cancer can begin. Some of the complications that may occur post cancer treatment are radiotherapy- or chemotherapy-induced mucositis (inflamed mouth), oral ulceration, bleeding, infections, pain, xerostomia (dry mouth) and caries (holes in the teeth). Surgery is aimed at removing the primary tumour and some of the surrounding normal tissue to make sure the cancer has been completely removed. If done du
