6 Common Treatments for Oral Cancer

The goal of oral cancer treatment is to get rid of the cancer cells in your body. Doctors use a case-by-case approach to decide on treatments. Your options will depend on the type of cancer you have, where it is, how much it’s spread, your age, and your overall health. Here are six common treatments for oral cancer.

Surgery is often needed to remove oral cancer. There are different types of procedures. Doctors might take the tumor out through your mouth or via an incision in your neck. The exact type of operation will depend on where the cancer is located. You might also need reconstructive surgery if parts or your tongue or jaw are removed.

Chemotherapy uses strong drugs to kill cancer. It’s often used for oral cancer before or after surgery. Chemo can also be used with radiation therapy to boost its success. Side effects of chemo may include nausea, vomiting, or hair loss. 

Radiation therapy uses beams of energy to kill cancer cells. Most of the time, the radiation is delivered via a machine that moves around your body. Or your doctor may place radioactive seeds directly inside your body. Radiation is often combined with other treatments, like surgery or chemo.

With targeted therapy, medicines find and attack certain features of cancer cells, leaving normal cells alone. Targeted therapy is typically only given to treat oral cancer that has spread. It can be used on its own or with chemo or radiation. You might also receive targeted therapy after surgery to kill leftover cancer cells.

Immunotherapy uses your body’s own immune system to fight cancer. It’s usually only given to treat oral cancer that has spread or recurs (comes back). Immunotherapy can be combined with other treatments.

Cancer can cause both physical and emotional issues. Supportive care can help you feel better all around. The goal is to make you as comfortable as possible. Some studies show supportive care may even help people with cancer live longer.