Effective Diagnosis and Modes of Treatment of Oral Cancer

September 8, 2009

Incidences of oral cancer are highest amongst tobacco users and alcoholics. An oral cancer treatment is a multidisciplinary approach, meaning that the efforts of surgeons, radiologists, chemotherapy oncologist, dental practitioners, nutritionists and rehabilitation and restorative specialists need to come together for effective treatment.

Actual treatment modalities include surgery, radiation and chemotherapy based on age, overall health and medical history. Surgical technique involves primary tumor resection, in which the surgeon removes the entire tumor and part of surrounding tissues. If the cancer invades the bone, then removing part or all of jawbone is very essential.

Yet another treatment option is radiation therapy, in which the radiologist focuses high energy x-rays to damage cancer cells. It is aimed at those areas where cancer is present. Side effects include sores, tissue destruction and significant pain during eating. Chemotherapy involves medications designed to kill cancer cells. It interferes with cancer cells halting its growth. It is often used in conjunction with radiation and surgery. Your doctor may refer you to a specialist such as oral and maxillofacial surgeons, otolaryngologists, medical oncologists, plastic surgeons, dentist, speech pathologist, mental health counselor and nutritionist for advanced treatment.

Keeping Your Teeth Pearly White

March 1, 2009

Aside from the skin and hair, teeth are also part of the body that we want to look great. Though it is more important to keep them healthy and strong, teeth are easily stained. As such, many people spend a lot on teeth whiteners to augment their good looks. There are several toothpastes in the market that keep teeth white and even more products or kits that can take away those surface stains. However, these are not permanent fixes. Teeth whitening strips are expensive and most use it regularly for a week or two before special events rather than as a regular regimen.

However, it would be more essential to prevent stains from worsening. To keep your teeth white and reduce stains, remember to brush your teeth twice daily. It would be advisable to use whitening toothpastes. Home remedies to whiten teeth could also be used, such as baking soda and hydrogen peroxide. But remember to use them only about once a week as they can damage the teeth enamel. Some place baking soda on their toothbrush before brushing their teeth. Others wipe their teeth with hydrogen peroxide after brushing and let it stay for 30 minutes before washing them away again. Hydrogen peroxide is bad for gums and would not be good to include in your gargle.

What do You Know About Gum Disease?

January 18, 2009

Gum disease is an inflammation of the gums due to poor dental hygiene. It is also referred to as periodontal disease by which the gums, surrounding tissues and bones of the teeth become seriously infected. Gum disease can be spotted when you have swollen gums, when your gums bleed when brushing, receding gums, chronic bad breath and loosening of teeth.

Gum disease usually starts with plaque build-up. Plaque is formed when you eat sweet and starchy food and its residue is combined with the bacteria normally found in your mouth. If the plaque is not effectively removed from the teeth, it hardens to what is called tartar. Tartar is harder to remove than plaque and will require a dentist to take it off.

Tartar, as hardened bacteria will lead to inflammation of the gums. Gingivitis is the mildest form of gum disease. At this stage, your dentist can still help you resolve this problem. Vitamin C is a known aid for gum disease since it is an antioxidant by nature and repairs tissues thus healing wounds fast. Good dental practices, together with Vitamin C will help you in keeping gum disease at bay.