Types of oral cancer affecting the mouth and what can a prosthodontist do to help?

Oral cancer accounts for roughly 3% of all cancers diagnosed annually in the United States. 3% adds up to roughly 53,000 new cases each year. Oral cancer often occurs in people over the age of 40. However, as a man, you are twice as likely to develop types of oral cancer than women. If you are older than 45 have, you have an increased risk of oral cancer. However, oral cancer can develop in people of any age.

Factors that can lead to oral cancer

Do you use tobacco? Smoked or chewed, you are at risk
Alcohol
Betel Quid
Ultraviolet light
common among people working outside
Poor nutrition
Certain genetic syndromes
HPV- human papillomavirus infection
Lichen planus patients have a higher risk
Immunosuppression

Areas that can be affected

Lips
Gums
Tongue
base, body, or sides anywhere
The inner lining of cheeks
The roof of mouth/palate
Floor of mouth

Symptoms

A lip or mouth sore that doesn’t heal
Red or white patch inside the mouth that can’t be rubbed off
Unexplained looseness in teeth or movement
Abnormal growth of tissue or lump inside the mouth
Pain and abnormal sensation in the jaw
Difficulty in chewing and swallowing
Pain in ear, throat, or adjoining structures

Prevention

Most importantly, stop using tobacco products, or better, don’t even start
Secondly, avoid excessive alcohol use or drink in moderation.
Prevent prolonged sun exposure in addition to protection against UV light. Such as, sunscreen, hats, and similarly sunglasses.
Moreover, Healthy balanced diet
Avoid unprotected sex with multiple partners
See your dentist regularly

Role of Prosthodontist

Prosthodontists begin with pre-radiation screening, identifying any teeth that are likely to cause you problems in the future, and in addition extracting them. The next step would be to restore your key teeth, subsequently supporting any denture, obturator, or maxillofacial prosthesis you require post-radiation and surgery.

Various types of prostheses made include:

You wear a radiation field during radiation therapy. Therefore, protecting your normal tissue.
Fluoride carriers
trays for patients with dry mouth from radiation and medications to prevent caries and strengthen remaining teeth
Surgical obturator
Covers roof of mouth after surgery to provide closure
Interim and definitive obturator- restores teeth and gums and closes the palate to aid in swallowing, chewing, and speaking..

Prosthodontists will work with a team of Anaplastologists and Oral and Maxillofacial surgeons to provide the foundation for various extraoral prostheses.

If you are considering dental implants tooth replacement, or if you have further questions about tooth replacement therapy, get in touch with your area Dental Implants Specialists at The Colorado Center for Implant and Prosthetic Dentistry.

Types of oral cancer affecting the mouth and what can a prosthodontist do to help?