|
What Type of Mouth Cancers Do Oral Surgeons Treat? |
Posted on 4/26/2021 by Ankur Johri |
| While cancer treatment has evolved over time and a cancer diagnosis no longer means terminal, just being diagnosed with cancer can be quite alarming. As with any cancer, early detection is the key to successful treatment of oral cancers which is why regular evaluations are highly recommended. Patients should be performing their own form of oral exam each night while brushing their teeth. They should look for growths, odd, discolored patches along their gums or roof of their mouths. These could be signs of oral cancer and should be evaluated by our office. Oral cancer can affect more than just the teeth and gums. In some cases, it can reach the tongue, lips, and even the throat. Different Types of Cancer Some behaviors can put patients at a greater risk for contracting oral cancer. The obvious ones are using tobacco products which include cigars, pipes, cigarettes, and even smokeless tobacco. E-Cigs are also considered risky and can increase the risk of contracting it. One strange factor is overexposure to direct sunlight which can also be a risk factor. The most common of all oral cancers are known as squamous cell carcinomas which make up 90% of all cancer diagnoses. This is also the easiest to treat. Verrucous carcinomas comprise approximately 5% of oral cancer and is a slow-growing cancer also involving the squamous cells. This type of cancer does not harm other nearby tissue. Salivary gland carcinomas are just as they sound, a cancer which develops in the minor salivary glands. These are located in the mouth and throat. Lymphomas are oral cancers which begin in the lymph nodes. This can be a fast-acting cancer because if it invades the lymphatic system it can spread throughout the body. About 25% of all leukoplakia cells become cancerous. These show as white patches in the mouth. However, we are here to really help determine if you have cancer when you call us for your consultation. All statistics provided by cancercare.com... Read more... |
All About Antibiotic Prophylaxis |
Posted on 4/12/2021 by Ankur Johri |
| Antibiotic prophylaxis may sound complicated, but in truth, it is a pretty simple idea. It is also called premedication and consists of taking antibiotics before surgeries to decrease the likelihood of infections. From tooth extractions to root canals, antibiotic prophylaxis is used in all sorts of dental surgeries and procedures to prevent infections. Candidates for Antibiotic Prophylaxis Antibiotic prophylaxis is especially useful for those with compromised immune systems. Patients suffering from illnesses such as diabetes, heart conditions, and arthritis are more prone to infections. This is because while the majority of people have healthy immune systems that fight bacteria in the bloodstream, those with poor immune systems are not able to do so as well. Therefore, bacteria in their bloodstream can result in infections. Risks of Antibiotic Prophylaxis However, while antibiotic prophylaxis can be useful in those with pre-existing conditions, it isn't necessary for all patients. In fact, for some, it may even be harmful since it has many associated risks. These include unpleasant side effects such as nausea, vomiting, allergic reactions, and even severe anaphylactic shock. Another risk antibiotic prophylaxis poses is that of developing antibiotic resistance – this then interferes with treatments for other concerns. Those over 70 should be especially careful when opting for antibiotic prophylaxis since they are more likely to experience side effects. Are You a Good Candidate for Antibiotic Prophylaxis This depends on the outcome of the benefits/risks analysis that should be performed based on your unique history. At Lehigh Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, and can go over your medical history and determine whether antibiotic prophylaxis is the right choice for you. This includes conditions you suffer from, the medications you are on, and more. To schedule an appointment at Lehigh Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, all you have to do is call us at (610) 435-6161 and ask to see either or .... Read more... |
Oral Surgery After-Care Tips |
Posted on 3/22/2021 by Ankur Johri |
| Every oral surgery is followed by a recovery period, and it's vital that you follow your oral surgeon's instructions for post-surgery care and caution. This is important to prevent any kind of complications from the surgery as well as to promote proper and quick healing of your dental region. Take a look at a few basic oral surgery after-care tips that you must follow, regardless of the type of surgery you get. Rest After Your Surgery It is important that you rest after your surgery because your body does need some time and space to recover. Simply lie down and relax, but make sure to keep your head propped in an elevated position with the help of pillows in order to ensure proper blood flow to your head. Not just that, but this will also help reduce the bleeding and swelling that occurs after oral surgery. Ice Your Face Swelling is a common occurrence after any oral surgery, for which we recommend that you apply ice to your face, particularly on the swollen area. It is best to ice your face throughout the face, but make sure to wait for at least 15-20 minutes between each icing session. Avoid Eating Hard Foods No matter how tempted you might be to devour your favorite foods, you should always avoid eating hard foods after oral surgery. Only stick to soft foods like mashed potatoes and liquids like soups, but that too after the bleeding has completely stopped post-surgery. Take Medicines As Instructed The most important after-care tip for oral surgery is to take your pain medicines as instructed by your oral surgeon. Don't skip any dose if you really want your dental region to heal properly and quickly. At Lehigh Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, and always ensure that their patients follow their post-surgery care tips and instructions for a smooth recovery period. Call us at (610) 435-6161 to schedule an appointment with us.... Read more... |