Cancer of the maxillofacial region is one of the most common cancers in the human body, being the 5th most common location. It presents in the form of tumors that can appear on the face, neck and oral cavity.
Mouth cancer has a good prognosis and can be cured with early diagnosis and treatment.
People at higher risk of developing oral cancer: men over 40 years of age, people more exposed to irritating factors that favor it (tobacco, alcohol, etc.), people with any warning signs or symptoms.
Warning signs: abnormal bleeding somewhere in the mouth and difficulty swallowing, chewing or speaking. Pain, tingling or dry mouth with no apparent cause. Wounds that do not heal properly. Persistent infections in the mouth. White, red or black spots in the mouth. Presence of hardness, lump or swelling in the mouth, face and/or neck. Sores anywhere in the mouth that do not heal within 15 days.
These signs or symptoms may be a red flag. It will probably be a minor problem, but it can also be a warning sign of cancer. Have your mouth examined once a month and if you discover anything suspicious, consult a specialist.
What should you do if you detect a warning sign?
These types of lesions require a thorough study to reach an accurate diagnosis.
Therefore, a multidisciplinary approach is required, with the collaboration of many specialists, among which the maxillofacial surgeon plays a fundamental role, due to his special knowledge of this anatomical area.
Most malignant tumors require the action of the maxillofacial surgeon, either as a means of diagnosis, by taking a biopsy, or, as occurs in most cases, as a planner and executor of the surgical treatment. In addition to surgical resection, the reconstructive technique is equally important to allow the patient to have a good adaptation and reintegration. Post-treatment controls are also of great importance to detect possible recurrences.
The Maxillofacial Unit of Ergodynamica Clinica has the entire therapeutic arsenal necessary to eliminate tumors in the maxillofacial region and reconstruct lost tissues.