Delayed or mistaken diagnoses are a significant concern in catching oral cancer early, largely because early symptoms don’t seem serious. A primary care physician may recommend an antibiotic for a mouth sore, for example, and by the time it becomes clear that the antibiotic isn’t working, it may be several weeks before the doctor recommends a visit with a specialist. That’s why experts urge patients to consider asking their primary care physicians about the possibility that such symptoms may be oral cancer, and to request a referral to a specialist if they are concerned.

A physical exam and a biopsy are often used to diagnose oral cancer.

The length of oral cancer treatments depends on a number of factors, such as the stage of the cancer, the type of treatment and its goals. A small cancer on the lip, for example, may be removed with surgery, but if cancer cells are later discovered to have spread to nearby areas or lymph nodes, other treatments may be recommended. Also, surgical treatments that affect the patient’s physical appearance or ability to perform basic functions may be followed by reconstructive surgeries at a later date.

After treatment ends, your doctor will likely give you a schedule for follow-up appointments and tests, which are typically spaced further and further apart as time passes.

If your treatment includes surgery, your doctor may recommend radiation and/or chemotherapy treatment afterward to kill any remaining cancer cells.

Also, even though treatment has ended, you may still experience certain side effects. You may continue regular visits with a speech therapist, for example, to help re-learn how to speak and swallow following surgery, or see a dietitian to help you manage nutritional deficits that may have developed during treatment.

Cancer recurrence is always a possibility. That’s why regular follow-up visits are recommended, so your doctor can monitor you closely after treatment ends, especially in the first two years, when the risk of recurrence is highest. Oral cancer patients are also at risk for developing a secondary cancer, which may develop during cancer treatment or after treatment ends. Because smoking and alcohol use increases the risk for secondary cancers, while also reducing the effects of certain treatments, oral cancer patients are advised to avoid tobacco and alcohol products altogether.

Many endodontic procedures are performed to relieve the pain of toothaches caused by pulp inflammation or infection. Today, Endodontists understand a great deal about pain management. With modern techniques and anesthetics, the vast majority of patients report that they are comfortable during the procedure.

For the first few days after treatment, your tooth may feel sensitive, especially if there was pain or infection before the procedure. Over-the-counter medications, such as Advil® or Tylenol®, are usually enough to manage this sensitivity. In some cases, prescription medications may be necessary and are available from your endodontist. Follow your endodontist’s instructions carefully. Your tooth may continue to feel slightly different from your other teeth for some time after your endodontic treatment is completed. Of course, if you experience pressure or pain that lasts more than a few days, call your endodontist.