Oral cancer arises when malignant cells develop in or around the mouth, affecting areas like the lips, tongue, gums, cheeks, and the upper or lower jaw. This condition can disrupt normal speech patterns by altering the movements or size of various parts of the mouth. Additionally, it can lead to difficulties in chewing and swallowing.

Oral Cancer – Diagnosis and Stages

The medical experts may diagnose oral cancer by conducting the following tests

• Physical Examination
• Brush Biopsy (Scrape Biopsy or Exfoliative Cytology)
• Incisional Biopsy
• Indirect Laryngoscopy and Pharyngoscopy
• Direct Pharyngoscopy and Laryngoscopy

The oral cancer tests will help the doctors determine a cancer’s stage. A stage indicates how far a cancer has spread or pierced the surface of the place where it was first discovered. Additionally, tests look for signs that the cancer has spread to other parts of the body. Medical professionals use staging data to suggest treatments and estimate recovery rates.

Generally, oral cancers are staged using the TNM method. T indicates the primary tumor’s size and location. N denotes whether the lymph nodes have been affected by the tumor. M denotes the presence of metastases or the tumor’s spread to other bodily parts.

The following are the stages of oral cavity cancer

1. The tumor is no larger than two cm.
2. The tumor is not bigger than 4 centimeters, but it is 2 centimeters or smaller.
3. The tumor has grown to a size of more than 4 cm.

Treatment Options:

Oral cancer can be treated through various methods, including surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, immunotherapy, or a combination of these approaches. Your healthcare provider will discuss all available options with you, explaining how each may impact your specific situation.

During your recovery, a Speech-Language Pathologist (SLP) can provide valuable support as you adapt to the changes in your mouth resulting from treatment. The SLP can assist you in improving your speech clarity by teaching techniques to accommodate any alterations.

Addressing swallowing difficulties may involve adjustments to your diet, potentially requiring changes in the types of foods you consume. You may also receive guidance on adopting new head positions or exercises aimed at enhancing your swallowing function.

Following surgery, the SLP collaborates with medical and dental professionals to explore alternative methods for reconstructing parts of your mouth that were removed during the surgical procedure. This approach contributes to improving both your ability to speak and swallow comfortably.

For individuals seeking information about oral cancer treatment, finding the best place for oral cancer treatment, or understanding oral cancer stages and treatment, it’s crucial to consult with Asha Speech & Hearing Clinic who can provide comprehensive guidance tailored to your specific needs.

At our clinic, we have a team of speech therapists with several years of experience in offering quality assistance to people who suffer from Oral Cancer. Our ultimate aim is to help those who approach us to lead a happy and healthy life. So, after a complete evaluation, our medical experts will offer the best speech therapy services and other potential treatments at reasonable prices for those affected by Oral Cancer.