Adam Yauch of the Beastie Boys died of Salivary Gland Cancer. This type of cancer can be detected by dental check-ups. As with most diseases, catching it early is very important. At Mooresville-Dentist.com, we care about your oral health. Call us to set up an appointment for a check-up or a cleaning.
Salivary Gland Cancer: Adam Yauch, Beastie Boys band member, dies of the disease, but what is it?
A member of the iconic Beastie Boys, has passed away after battling cancer of the salivary gland, according to news reports. Yauch, 47, was treated for the cancer in 2009, and in 2011, there were false reports that he had beaten it. But he actually was never cured of the cancer, and he continued to battle the disease.
While Salivary Gland cancer is very rare, it is one of the many types of oral cancers that are hard to treat unless caught early. Visiting your dentist regularlyand having them check for any suspicious areas in the mouth is essential to catching and treating oral cancers.
What Are the Salivary Glands?
The salivary glands make saliva and release it into the mouth. Saliva has enzymes that help digest food and antibodies that help protect against infections of the mouth and throat. There are three pairs of major salivary glands:
• Parotid glands: These are the largest salivary glands and are found in front of and just below each ear. Most major salivary gland tumors begin in this gland.
• Sublingual glands: These glands are found under the tongue in the floor of the mouth.
• Submandibular glands: These glands are found below the jawbone.
There are also hundreds of small (minor) salivary glands lining parts of the mouth, nose, and larynx that can be seen only with a microscope. Most small salivary gland tumors begin in the palate (roof of the mouth).
More than half of all salivary gland tumors are benign (not cancerous) and do not spread to other tissues.
Risk Factors for Salivary Gland Cancer
Being exposed to certain types of radiation may increase the risk of salivary gland cancer. Anything that increases the chance of getting a disease is called a risk factor. However, having a risk factor does not guarantee that you will get cancer, just as not having risk factors doesn’t mean that you will not get cancer. People who think they may be at risk should discuss this with their doctor. Although the cause of most salivary gland cancers is not known, risk factors include the following:
• Older age
• Treatment with radiation therapy to the head and neck
• Being exposed to certain substances at work
Symptoms
Salivary gland cancer may not cause any symptoms. It is sometimes found during a regular dental check-up or physical exam. Symptoms caused by salivary gland cancer also may be caused by other conditions. A doctor should be consulted if any of the following problems occur:
• A lump (usually painless) in the area of the ear, cheek, jaw, lip, or inside the mouth
• Fluid draining from the ear
• Trouble swallowing or opening the mouth widely
• Numbness or weakness in the face
• Pain in the face that does not go away
Treating Salivary Gland Cancer
Certain factors affect treatment options and prognosis (chance of recovery). The treatment options and prognosis depend on the following:
• The stage of the cancer (especially the size of the tumor)
• The type of salivary gland the cancer is in
• The type of cancer cells
• The patient’s age and general health
Source: http://dentistry.about.com/od/issuesandemergencies/a/What-Is-Salivary-Gland-Cancer.htm
You can learn more about caring for your teeth and about early screening checks by calling our Mooresville dentist office at (704) 746-3435. Also, get to know us by subscribing to our Facebook page:www.facebook.com/lembomontgomery. Dr.’s Lembo and Montgomery are two Mooresville dentist that care about your dental health. Call for an appointment now.