Oral Cancer Treatment
Oral cancer is a serious and life-threatening condition that affects thousands of people in India every year. It is one of the most common cancers in the country, largely due to widespread tobacco and betel nut use. The good news is that with early detection, oral cancer treatment has excellent results.
If you are looking for reliable Oral Cancer Treatment in Pune, Dr. Chirag Bhirud is the right specialist to consult. He is a highly experienced Oral Cancer Specialist in Pune and a trusted Surgical Oncologist in Pune with over 15+ years of expertise. Awarded the Best Oral Paper at ISO 2019 for his pioneering work on 3D VATS esophagectomy and the Best Poster at ISO-ISMPO 2019 for his research on locally advanced oral tongue cancer, Dr. Chirag Bhirud brings nationally recognised excellence to every patient he treats. He practises at Jupiter Hospital, Baner, Pune, and is available 24 hours a day.
What is Oral Cancer?
Oral cancer refers to cancer that develops in any part of the mouth. This includes the lips, tongue, gums, inner lining of the cheeks, roof of the mouth (palate), and the floor of the mouth. It can also affect the throat at the back of the mouth.
Most oral cancers are squamous cell carcinomas. They begin in the flat cells that line the mouth and throat. Early-stage oral cancer is highly treatable. Advanced cases may require a combination of surgery, radiation, and chemotherapy.
What makes oral cancer serious is that it’s often found later when it has already advanced. That’s why spotting it early is so important. By knowing the causes and risks, as well as the warning signs, you can take action sooner.
Understanding Oral Cancer – Causes & Risk Factors:
Several factors can trigger abnormal cell growth in the mouth. The most common causes include:
- Tobacco use — smoking cigarettes, bidis, pipes, or chewing tobacco and gutka
- Alcohol consumption — heavy and regular drinking increases the risk significantly
- Betel nut (supari) chewing — extremely common in India and a major risk factor
- Human Papillomavirus (HPV) infection — particularly HPV-16
- Prolonged exposure to sunlight — mainly affects the lips
- Poor oral hygiene and ill-fitting dentures causing chronic irritation
- Nutritional deficiencies, especially Vitamins A and C
In India, tobacco-related oral cancer is the most prevalent. Quitting tobacco is the most effective step to prevent oral cancer.
Oral Cancer Symptoms and Signs:
Knowing the oral cancer symptoms early can be life-saving. Watch out for:
- A sore or ulcer in the mouth that does not heal within two to three weeks
- A red or white patch on the gums, tongue, or inner cheek
- Persistent pain or discomfort in the mouth or jaw
- Difficulty in swallowing, chewing, or speaking
- A lump or thickening felt inside the mouth or on the neck
- Numbness or tenderness in the mouth or lips
- Unexplained bleeding in the mouth
- Loose teeth without any dental cause
- Ear pain without hearing loss
If any of these symptoms last for more than two weeks, consult a Cancer Doctor in Pune immediately. Early action can significantly improve the survival rate.
Oral Cancer Warning Signs and Risk Factors:
Who Is at Risk for Oral Cancer?
Oral cancer can affect anyone, but certain groups are at higher risk:
- Men above the age of 40 — though younger cases are rising due to HPV
- Tobacco users — smokers and smokeless tobacco users
- Heavy alcohol drinkers
- People with a history of HPV infection
- Those with a family history of oral or head and neck cancer
- Individuals with previous oral cancer diagnosis
- People with poor oral hygiene or chronic mouth sores
If you identify with any of these factors, a Cancer Specialist in Pune can help with screening and early detection.
How is Oral Cancer Diagnosed?
Early diagnosis is the key to successful cancer treatment. Dr. Chirag Bhirud uses a thorough, step-by-step approach:
- Physical Examination — visual and manual inspection of the mouth, lips, and neck
- Biopsy — a small tissue sample is taken from the suspicious area and tested in a lab
- Endoscopy — to check the throat and nearby areas for spread
- CT Scan, MRI, or PET Scan — to determine the stage and extent of cancer
- Orthopantomogram (OPG) — dental X-ray to assess jawbone involvement
These tests help Dr. Chirag Bhirud plan the most effective and personalised treatment for each patient.
When Should You See a Doctor?
The best time to visit a doctor is when something feels unusual or isn’t going away.
For example, if you notice a sore spot in your mouth that lingers for weeks, don’t brush it off. It might feel like a hassle, but ruling out oral cancer early could save you from more serious issues later.
Treatment Options for Oral Cancer:
As a skilled Cancer Surgeon in Pune, Dr. Chirag Bhirud offers a full range of treatment options based on the stage and location of the cancer:
- Surgery: Surgery is the primary treatment for most oral cancers. Dr. Chirag Bhirud, a renowned Robotic Cancer Surgeon in Pune, performs minimally invasive robotic and laparoscopic surgeries. This means smaller cuts, less blood loss, and faster recovery. Tumour removal, jaw reconstruction, and neck dissection are performed with great precision.
- Radiation Therapy: Radiation is used after surgery to kill any remaining cancer cells. It may also be the primary treatment for early-stage cancers where surgery is not suitable.
- Chemotherapy: Chemotherapy is often combined with radiation (chemoradiation) for advanced cases. It can also be given before surgery to shrink the tumour.
- Targeted Therapy and Immunotherapy: For certain types of oral cancer, targeted drugs or immunotherapy medicines help the immune system attack cancer cells more effectively. These are used for advanced or recurrent cases.
5. Reconstructive Surgery: After tumour removal, reconstructive procedures help restore the appearance and function of the mouth and jaw, improving the patient’s quality of life.
Diet and Lifestyle Tips After Oral Cancer Surgery
Recovery after oral cancer surgery requires careful attention to diet and daily habits:
- Start with soft, easy-to-swallow foods like soups, porridge, and mashed vegetables
- Stay well-hydrated — drink plenty of water and fresh juices
- Avoid spicy, hard, or crunchy foods that can irritate the mouth
- Quit tobacco and alcohol completely — this is non-negotiable for recovery and to prevent oral cancer from returning
- Maintain good oral hygiene with gentle brushing and prescribed mouthwash
- Eat small, frequent meals if swallowing is difficult
- Include protein-rich foods like dal, eggs, and paneer to aid healing
- Attend all follow-up appointments for regular monitoring
Dr. Chirag Bhirud’s team provides detailed dietary and recovery guidance to every patient after surgery.
How Much Does Oral Cancer Treatment Cost in Pune?
The cost of oral cancer treatment in Pune depends on the stage of cancer, the type of surgery required, the need for radiation or chemotherapy, and the hospital facilities used.
At Jupiter Hospital, Baner, patients receive world-class care with transparent pricing. Robotic and minimally invasive surgeries may have higher upfront costs but reduce overall expenses by shortening hospital stays and recovery time.
For a detailed and personalised cost estimate, contact Dr. Chirag Bhirud’s team.
Why Choose Dr. Chirag Bhirud for Oral Cancer Treatment in Pune?
Dr. Chirag Bhirud is one of the most trusted Cancer Specialists in PCMC. Here is why thousands of patients choose him:
- 15+ years of experience in surgical oncology with a focus on head, neck, and oral cancers
- 10,000+ patients treated with a 95% success rate
- Expert Robotic Cancer Surgeon in Pune — precise, minimally invasive procedures
- Nationally awarded — Best Oral Paper at ISO 2019 and Best Poster at ISO-ISMPO 2019
- Published oncosurgical research in indexed national journals
- Participated in 20+ national conferences and workshops
- Compassionate, patient-first approach — families are guided at every step
- Located at Jupiter Hospital, Baner — accessible from all parts of Pune and PCMC
- Open 24 hours for consultations and emergencies
Do not delay. Early treatment saves lives. Book your appointment with Dr. Chirag Bhirud today.
- Address: 1st Floor, OPD 4, Jupiter Hospital, Baner – Balewadi Rd, near Prathamesh Park, Pune, Maharashtra 411069
- Phone: 070283 73574
- Email: bhirudcancercare@gmail.com
You are not alone in this fight. Together, we’re here to help you overcome oral cancer and live life to the fullest.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Oral cancer detected at Stage I or Stage II has a very high survival rate and is often curable with surgery alone. Advanced stages require a combination of treatments but still respond well to modern therapies. The earlier it is caught, the better the outcome. This is why regular screening with a Cancer Doctor in Pune is so important.
The most common early oral cancer symptoms are a non-healing mouth ulcer, a red or white patch inside the mouth, and pain or difficulty in swallowing. If these persist beyond two weeks, see a specialist immediately.
Yes, recurrence is possible. Regular follow-up visits with Dr. Chirag Bhirud are essential after treatment. He monitors for any signs of return and takes prompt action if needed.
The best ways to prevent oral cancer are to quit tobacco and alcohol, maintain good oral hygiene, eat a balanced diet rich in fruits and vegetables, and get regular oral check-ups. HPV vaccination can also reduce the risk in younger individuals.
The cost varies depending on the stage of cancer and the treatment required. Surgery, radiation, and chemotherapy each have different costs. At Jupiter Hospital, Baner, Dr. Chirag Bhirud’s team provides transparent pricing after a detailed consultation. Call 070283 73574 for an estimate.