Oral Tumor and Cancer Management

Removing oral tumors is an extremely complicated and technically challenging procedure. In addition to removing the visible mass, it is usually necessary to remove what's called a margin of healthy tissue around the mass with an attempt at completely removing all microscopic disease as well.

Usually this involves removing the mass, soft tissue, teeth and bone in the area. Veterinary dentists with training in oral surgery also typically have a focus on maintaining oral function and aesthetics in addition to removing the entire tumor.

Whenever we remove a tumor in our hospital, we pre-emptively address other concerns such as teeth that will cause trauma and mandibular drift secondary to tumor removal.

Some oral tumors are better addressed by a surgical oncologist in a 24-hours hospital, but many oral tumors can be managed in our hospital.

It is often helpful, even if a major surgery is required, to have a dentist prepare the mouth for that surgery, including performing a dental cleaning, performing any required dental extractions, and preparing for elastic bracing or shortening of teeth that will cause trauma after the removal.

These are always complicated procedures, but with careful planning, diligent treatment, and teamwork many patients with oral tumors can have excellent cosmetic, functional and comfortable outcomes.