Oral Cancer Exam

According to the American Cancer Society, over 30,000 cases of oral cancer are diagnosed each year, with over 7000 of these cases resulting in the death of the patient. Fortunately, oral cancer can be diagnosed with an annual cancer exam provided by Dr. Rodriguez, Dr. Matoska, Dr. Otomo-Corgel and Dr. Ahn. If caught early, oral cancer can be effectively treated.

Oral cancer is a pathologic process, which begins by producing no symptoms making it hard to recognize without an exam. There are many types of oral cancer, including teratoma, adenocarcinoma and melanoma. The most common form of oral cancer is malignant squamous cell carcinoma, which typically originates in the lip and mouth tissue. There are many other places in which oral cancers occur, including: the tongue, salivary glands, throat, gums, and face.

WHAT TO EXPECT

The oral cancer examination is completely painless. Dr. Rodriguez, Dr. Matoska, Dr. Otomo-Corgel and Dr. Ahn will look for abnormalities and feel the face, glands, and neck for unusual bumps. Lasers may be used to highlight pathologic changes, and can look below the surface for spots and legions invisible to the naked eye. Some of the signs that will be investigated are red patches and sores. Red patches on the floor of the mouth, or the front of the tongue, and bleeding sores which fail to heal easier, can be indicative of cancerous changes. Leukoplakia is a hardened white or gray, slightly raised lesion that can appear inside the mouth, and may be cancerous. Signs of these will be examined as well. Finally, soreness, lumps or the general thickening of tissue anywhere in the throat or mouth can signal pathologic signs, and will be examined.

If abnormalities, lesions, lumps, or leukoplakia are apparent, Dr. Rodriguez, Dr. Matoska, Dr. Otomo-Corgel and Dr. Ahn will implement a treatment plan that is right for you. Treatment options vary according to the precise diagnosis, but may include: excision, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy.

It is also important to note that over 75% of oral cancers are linked with avoidable behaviors such as smoking, tobacco use, and excessive alcohol consumption. Dr. Rodriguez, Dr. Matoska, Dr. Otomo-Corgel and Dr. Ahn can provide you with literature and options about quitting dangerous behaviors such as tobacco use.

Five-Star Reviews

Testimonials

Perio Implant Health Professionals is proud to serve our community in Los Angeles, CA, with integrity, passion, and kindness. See what our patients have to say about us.
I went in today for a consultation and had a great experience. I am terrified of going to the dentist but Dr. Rodriguez was kind and patient with me while I had a mini breakdown. His assistants Danny and Mariano were also very kind. I have my surgery appointment in August and although I am nervous, I know I'll be in good hands.

Athenas O.

Tampa, FL


I met Dr Joan Otomo-Corgel while bringing my client to see her. While there I showed her my front gums that had amalgam leaking from very old post & core with crowns & multiple bone graft procedures.  My dentist sent my X-rays to her office and she examined my whole mouth to advise me & my dentist what she suggests as treatment options. Meeting Dr. Otomo- Corgel gave me great peace of mind about next steps. Once that part of my mouth is tackled, I would definitely come back for an implant consultation in another part of my mouth!  Her assistant Marcello was very welcoming & thorough with my intake & exam. What a blessing!

Lisa B.

Tampa, FL

Dr. Otomo is a caring and highly skilled periodontist.  I've suffered from chronic gum inflammation for years, but have seen significant improvement since I began seeing her.  She's active in the research aspects of her field and knowledgeable of the latest treatments. Her sense of humor is a nice bonus.

Ross D.

Tampa, FL