Why Choose Us for Lip & Oral Cavity Cancer Treatment
At Huntsman Cancer Institute, you receive comprehensive, multidisciplinary care for lip and oral cavity cancers through our Head and Neck Cancers Program. Your care team includes surgical oncologists, radiation oncologists, medical oncologists, reconstructive surgeons, and supportive care specialists. We work together to design an individualized treatment plan that’s focused on your needs and goals. Our approach emphasizes state-of-the-art treatments, rehabilitation services, and coordinated care across specialties to help you achieve the best possible outcome while maintaining your quality of life.
"My doctor and his staff are true professionals and kind and caring human beings. I have felt them in my corner through all of my treatment, and that has bolstered my courage through this illness."
—Lip & Oral Cavity Cancer Patient
Treatments We Offer
Treatment depends on your cancer stage, location, and preferences. Common options include the following:
- Surgery, including reconstructive surgery when needed
- Radiation therapy
When appropriate, systemic therapies such as chemotherapy or targeted therapy can be discussed between you and your multidisciplinary team.
Our Expertise
As the National Cancer Institute-designated Comprehensive Cancer Center serving the Mountain West, we’re here to offer you the latest treatments and the highest level of care available, including access to the following:
- Expert surgical oncology, medical oncology, radiation oncology, pathology, and reconstructive surgeons
- Multidisciplinary approach to provide tailored treatment plans
- Advanced techniques that can reduce side effects and accelerate recovery
Patient Care Philosophy
We believe no one should face cancer alone. Our dedicated and world-renowned doctors, nurses, and medical staff are at the forefront of patient-centered care. We treat the whole person, not just their cancer.
Each day, our medical, surgical, and radiation oncologists work together across disciplines to create and coordinate treatment plans for every patient. We understand cancer is a complex disease. That is why we use a team approach that includes social workers and support groups, as well as wellness and integrative health services such as acupuncture, massage, creative arts, and more.
Find an Oral Cancer Doctor
Oral Cancer Research
Our expert research teams are working to improve treatment for head and neck cancers, especially in advanced cases. Through clinical trials, we explore new therapies and strategies that may offer better outcomes and reduce treatment side effects. Our research includes trials for immunotherapy, radiation de-escalation in HPV-related disease, and other cutting-edge approaches.
By participating, you play an active role in advancing care and helping others facing the same diagnosis.
Interested in learning more?
Talk to your doctor about whether a clinical trial could be right for you.
Clinical Trials
Make an Appointment with an Oral Cancer Specialist
To make an appointment with an oral cancer specialist, fill out our appointment form or call 801-587-7000. Our team will determine if your insurance covers treatment at Huntsman Cancer Institute or if you need a referral from a primary care doctor.
External providers can refer a patient using the online referral form or by calling 801-587-7000 to speak to a patient registration specialist.
Oral Cancer Basics
Lip and oral cavity cancer (also called oral cancer) is a disease where malignant (cancerous) cells form in the lips or mouth. Our experts recommend routine dental screening for oral cancer and prompt evaluation by a provider if you notice symptoms.
These are warning signs of lip and oral cavity cancer:
- A sore on the lip or in the mouth that does not heal
- A lump or thickening on the lips, gums, or in the mouth
- White or red patches on the gums, tongue, or lining of the mouth
- Bleeding, pain, or numbness in the lip or mouth
- Loose teeth or dentures that no longer fit
- Difficulty chewing, swallowing, or moving the tongue or jaw
- Swelling of the jaw, sore throat, feeling like something is stuck in the throat, or change in voice
Many of these symptoms can be caused by other conditions. If you are experiencing any concerning signs, please schedule a screening today.
These are risk factors for lip and oral cavity cancer:
- Tobacco use
- Excess sun exposure (for lip cancers)
- Human papillomavirus (HPV) infection
- Alcohol use
Understand your risk. Schedule a genetic counseling session today.
Diagnosis
To diagnose lip and oral cavity cancer, doctors may use the following:
- Physical exam and history
- Imaging tests (CT, MRI, PET as indicated)
- Exfoliative cytology or biopsy for tissue diagnosis
Staging
Stages of lip and oral cavity cancer indicate the extent of disease and guide treatment.
These are common staging descriptors:
- Stage 0 (carcinoma in situ)
- Stage 1 (tumor < 2 cm)
- Stage 2 (2–4 cm)
- Stage 3 (any size with regional lymph node spread or >4 cm)
- Stage 4 (tumor has spread outside the lip/oral cavity or to distant sites)
Need help navigating your care? The Cancer Learning Center is here to support you with personalized guidance, resources, and answers to your questions.
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