Dr. (Maj)Subhashish Halder

Oral cancer is the uncontrollable growth of cells called tumors that invade and damage the tissues surrounding it is in or around the mouth. Oral cancer, like all other types of cancer, is life threatening if not diagnosed and treated in the early stages. There are eight types of oral cancer namely cancer in the throat, sinuses, hard and soft palate, floor of the mouth, gums, cheeks, tongue and lips. Dentists are usually the first ones to notice and detect the signs and symptoms of oral cancer. This condition is also known as oral cavity cancer. The risk factors and symptoms of oral cancer are mentioned below.

Symptoms:

The symptoms of oral cancer, especially in the first stages, seem non-threatening and similar to common oral problems. However, visiting the doctor is mandatory to rule out cancer as an option. If you suffer from one or more of the following symptoms, visit your dentist immediately.

1. Thickenings and swellings, lumps or bumps, crusts, eroded areas or rough spots on the lips, gums or surrounding regions inside or around the mouth.
2. Bleeding in the mouth that is unexplainable. 
3. Persistent sores near and around the mouth or throat that bleed easily and may take more than two weeks to heal.
4. Unexplained numbness or pain and tenderness in the mouth, throat or face.
5. Development of patches, which are usually speckled, red or white in the mouth. 
6. Sudden weight loss.
7. Excruciating pain in your ear.
8. Loose teeth.
9. Difficulty in swallowing.
10. Lumps in your neck. 
11. Stiffness or pain in your jaw.
12. Pain in your tongue.
13. Dentures that fit poorly. 

Risk factor:

Men above 50 years of age face the greatest risk of developing oral cancer. Women are at a much lower risk of developing oral cancer than men. The following factors increase your risk of developing oral cancer: 

1. Smoking cigarettes, cigars or pipes 
2. Snuff, dips or chewing tobacco
3. Excessive consumption of alcohol
4. History of oral or other types of cancer in the family
5. Chronic sun exposure, especially facial exposure
6. Sexually transmitted virus such as HPV
7. Diagnosed of oral cancer previously

In case you have a concern or query you can always consult an expert & get answers to your questions!

Cosmetic dentistry can help you have a straight aligned teeth in only 2-3 dental visits. The entire process is nearly painless and can be done in single visit for some minor corrections.

Cosmetic correction can be done for-

1) misaligned teeth

2) deformed or discolored teeth

3) decayed or broken teeth.

A root canal is a treatment to repair and save a badly damaged or infected tooth. The procedure involves removing the damaged area of the tooth (the pulp), cleaning and disinfecting it and then filling and sealing it. The common causes affecting the pulp are a cracked tooth, a deep cavity, repeated dental treatment to the tooth or trauma. The term "root canal" comes from cleaning of the canals inside the tooth's root.

Millions of teeth are treated and saved each year with root canal, or endodontic, treatment. Learn more about root canal treatment and how it can relieve your tooth pain and save your smile.

The Procedure-

1. A root canal procedure begins with an X-ray to determine the shape of the root canals and whether the infection has spread to the adjoining bone.

2. Local anesthesia is then administered to numb the affected area.

3. A rubber sheet is then placed around the tooth to keep the area and prevent it from the saliva.

4. A hole is then drilled in the affected tooth, following which the decayed pulp and nerve tissues are removed.

5. The removal is done by using root canal files which are inserted into the hole and then used to scrape and scrub the insides of the tooth.

6. After the scraping, water is used to clean and flush out the debris.

7. After the tooth is cleaned, it is sealed after administering medications to prevent infection.

8. The sealing process involves filling the inner portion of the teeth by a rubber based compound and a sealer paste.

Modern endodontic treatment is very similar to having a routine filling and usually can be completed in one or two appointments, depending on the condition of your tooth and your personal circumstances. You can expect a comfortable experience during and after your appointment.

• Saving the natural tooth with root canal treatment has many advantages:

• Efficient chewing

• Normal biting force and sensation

• Natural appearance

• Protects other teeth from excessive wear or strain

Post-obturation:

1. Once the surgery is done, the tooth may become sensitive due to inflammation of the tissues for the first few days.

2. This pain and inflammation can be limited by pain medications such as ibuprofen.

3. It is advised to avoid any chewing by the affected teeth as it can slow down the repair process. You can brush and floss your teeth regularly.

In case you have a concern or query you can always consult an expert & get answers to your questions!