The treatment will depend on the stage and site of the cancer and the effect of the treatment on functions such as speech, chewing, and swallowing.

Each treatment option can unfortunately cause unwanted side effects. So the quality of the patient's life can be drastically affected within the first few months of treatment.

However, treatment of mouth cancer is necessary and important and the chances of long-term survival are much better if the cancer is treated early.


Surgery

Patients may need surgery to remove the cancer. If the cancer has spread, it may be necessary to remove parts of the jaw or neck.

The patient’s stay in hospital will depend on the extent of the surgery and whether or not they have had skin or tissue grafts.

Surgery can be disfiguring and therefore distressing for the patient to cope with. The organisation Changing Faces can provide invaluable advice and support for patients.


External radiotherapy

External radiotherapy is the use of high-energy rays from a machine with beam that can be aimed as accurately as possible to damage the cancer cells and stop them spreading.

It affects only the cells in the treated area. It can also be used after surgery to make sure that all the cancer has been removed.

External radiotherapy usually involves the patient visiting the hospital everyday for around six weeks, although this will vary according to the needs of the individual.


Implant radiotherapy

Implant radiotherapy involves putting metal rods or pellets containing radioactive material directly onto the cancer or the surrounding tissue.

The implant is left in for about seven days. During this time the patient has to stay in hospital, and time with visitors and care staff is limited, so that they are not exposed to the radiation.

In some cases, internal and external radiotherapy can be used together.

Radiation damages the salivary glands. Because of this, loss of taste and dry mouth is a common side effect. Fortunately, it is possible to relieve the symptoms of dry mouth using special medications.


Chemotherapy

Chemotherapy involves using specific drugs to kill the cancer cells.

These are swallowed or injected into the vein to enter the bloodstream and reduce the cancerous cells.

Chemotherapy can also be used to shrink the cancer before surgery.

The most common side effect of chemotherapy is feeling sick and being sick, and hair loss is also likely. Chemotherapy can also cause anaemia, dry mouth, mouth sores and people may become depressed.

The Cancer Life Centre is a website that has more information about chemotherapy, the side effects and coping with the treatment.