Tongue cancer is a malignant tumour of the tongue. It's serious and unfortunately, it's often initially painless. This is an important reason to visit a dentist every six months or more for a cleaning and examination. Patients who smoke or use smokeless tobacco have a higher incidence and it is unusual to see this malignancy in people under 40.

          Tongue cancer can begin as a small lump inside or one the surface, a firm white patch on the surface of the tongue or an ulcer. The ulcer is the most serious presentation and it generally has a firm and raised rim with a bleeding center. As with all malignancies, it is best treated as early as possible, if not, it can spread to the floor of the mouth, the jaws, the neck, lymph nodes and the rest of the body eventually killing the patient.

          If tongue cancer is left untreated the tongue muscles usually get stiff and rigid. The patient can experience difficulty eating, speaking, or swallowing and the tongue can become painful. With excessive growth, the tumour pushes the tongue back into the throat and causes difficulty breathing and swallowing. Again, early treatment is essential to success. Neglect can lead to surgery with removal of the tongue. If it's treated early instead, there is a very high treatment success (about 80%). If you are concerned, there's no good reason to delay seeing a dentist.

         The dentists at the Atlanta Dental Group PC are dedicated to their patients' good health and well being. You are welcome to join our family of patients. Both Dr. Padolsky and Dr. Smith would be honored to care for you. If you are concerned about tongue cancer or have a tongue cancer symptom that you want investigated, make an appointment to consult with Dr. Padolsky by calling 404-874-7428.