Oral Cancer

Oral cancer is one of the most common cancers today and has one of the lowest survival rates, with thousands of new cases being reported each year. Fewer than half of all people diagnosed with oral cancer are ever cured.

Moreover, people with many forms of cancer can develop complications—some of them chronic and painful—from their cancer treatment.  These include dry mouth and overly sensitive teeth, as well as accelerated tooth decay.

If oral cancer is not treated in time, it could spread to other facial and neck tissues, leading to disfigurement and pain.

Older adults over the age of 40 (especially men) are most susceptible to developing oral cancer, but people of all ages are at risk.

Oral cancer can occur anywhere in the mouth, but the tongue appears to be the most common location. Other oral structures could include the lips, gums and other soft palate tissues in the mouth.

Warning Signs

In general, early signs of oral cancer usually occur in the form of lumps, patchy areas and lesions, or breaks, in the tissues of the mouth. In many cases, these abnormalities are not painful in the early stages, making even self-diagnosis difficult.

Here are some additional warning signs:

  • Hoarseness or difficulty swallowing.
  • Unusual bleeding or persistent sores in the mouth that won't heal.
  • Lumps or growths in other nearby areas, such as the throat or neck.

If a tumor is found, surgery will generally be required to remove it. Some facial disfigurement could also result.

Prevention

Prevention is the key to staving off oral cancer. One of the biggest culprits is tobacco and alcohol use. Certain kinds of foods and even overexposure to the sun have also been linked to oral cancer. Some experts believe certain oral cancer risk factors are also hereditary.

A diet rich in fruits and vegetables is one of the best defenses against oral cancer. Maintaining good oral hygiene, and regular dental checkups, are highly recommended.

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Hours of Operation

Our Regular Schedule

Monday:

9:00 am-6:00 pm

Tuesday:

9:00 am-6:00 pm

Wednesday:

9:00 am-6:00 pm

Thursday:

9:00 am-6:00 pm

Friday:

9:00 am-2:00 pm

When Available

Saturday:

8:30 am-1:00 pm

Sunday:

Closed

    "I have been going to Dr. Kandou for a good number of years now.   I have total trust and confidence in all that she has done in satisfying my dental needs.  Her experience and desire to do what needs to be done is most gratifying.  I highly recommend her…"

    Robert S.

    "My husband and I recently started treatment with Dr. Wang and have found him to be an excellent dentist.  We have found him to be cordial and professional, knowledgeable and extremely thorough.  What has been most refreshing is that he takes his time to explain his evaluation …  pointing out issues to be addressed.  During procedures he explains what he is doing and what to expect; he also checks throughout to make sure we are comfortable.  Also, with any concerns we have had, he has called personally on the phone to discuss them.  We have been very pleased with Dr. Wang’s care of our dental needs."

    Karen M.

    "Amazing meticulous and caring practice, especially Dr. Kandou!"

    S. R.

    “I have been a patient of Dr. Wang’s for the past several years.  I have found him to be extremely thorough and caring.  He reviews my dental situation with me and makes sure that I understand.  His office has always treated me very courteously.”

    Les R.

    “Dr. Kandou is very knowledgeable, professional, and caring…  she is thorough, answers all questions beyond what is actually asked …  I am extremely pleased with this practice and the care they give.”

    Ann B.

    “Dr. Wang … has been overseeing my dental needs, both preventive and restorative with the utmost of competence and professionalism.  He has earned my trust and confidence.”

    Mary Ellen C.