What to Know About Oral Surgery for Salivary Gland Tumors
When you are faced with a diagnosis of a salivary gland tumor, your head may immediately be buzzing with questions. What does it mean? How will it affect you and your quality of life? What can be done to treat it? At St. Louis South Oral Surgery, located in St. Louis and Festus, MO, we specialize in providing expert oral surgery for salivary gland tumors. In this article, we will inform you about the various oral surgery techniques we employ in treating these tumors.
Understanding Salivary Gland Tumors
Before discussing the treatment options, it is essential to understand what salivary gland tumors are. These are growths that can occur in any of the salivary glands in your mouth. They can be benign (non-cancerous) or malignant (cancerous), but it is worth noting that most salivary gland tumors are benign.
Oral Surgery for Salivary Gland Tumors
Oral surgery for salivary gland tumors constitutes one of the principal treatment methods that can meaningfully improve the health condition of individuals affected. At St. Louis South Oral Surgery, our highly trained and experienced surgeons utilize a variety of surgical techniques, including:
Parotidectomy
We perform parotidectomy to treat tumors located in the parotid glands. This procedure involves the removal of part or all of the parotid gland. Our surgeons always endeavor to minimize damage to the facial nerve, which passes through this gland.
Submandibular gland excision
This surgical procedure focuses on treating tumors located in the submandibular gland, positioned under your jawline. This procedure involves removing part or all of the submandibular gland.
Minor salivary gland surgery
Tumors in the minor salivary glands (small glands located throughout the lining of your mouth and throat) can also necessitate minor salivary gland surgery. The specific surgical approach varies with the location and size of these tumors.
Expert Post-Surgical Care
Post-surgical care following any form of oral surgery is crucial in determining the overall success of the operation. At St. Louis South Oral Surgery, our professional care extends beyond the operating room. Our team provides expert guidance and support to aid patient recovery, including sound advice on:
- Pain management throughout the recovery process
- Ensuring nutrition is maintained despite potential eating and drinking difficulties
- Regular check-ups and monitoring recovery progress
- Exercises to regain normal mouth and facial movements
- Oral hygiene practices to prevent infections
Why Choose St. Louis South Oral Surgery
When it comes to treating salivary gland tumors and taking care of our patients, there are several reasons why St. Louis South Oral Surgery is a trusted name:
- Specialized Experience: We have an excellent team of surgeons with extensive training and experience in oral and maxillofacial surgery.
- Cutting-edge Techniques: We employ the latest surgical methods and technologies to ensure our patients benefit from the best available treatments.
- Patient-Centric Approach: We prioritize the comfort, care, and specific needs of our patients. We are committed to educating you about your condition and treatment options to enable evolving better-informed decisions.
- Comprehensive Care: From pre-surgery consultation to post-surgery follow-ups, we take pride in offering complete end-to-end care.
When diagnosed with salivary gland tumors, it’s essential to seek professional medical advice. Identifying the right treatment option can play a vital role in overcoming the health challenge. At St. Louis South Oral Surgery, we provide expert consultations and high-quality oral surgery for salivary gland tumors, working together to chart the best way forward for your health.
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