Cancer affecting the mouth, throat, and related structures requires early detection and specialized treatment for the best possible outcomes. These malignancies can develop in various locations–from the lips and tongue to the tonsils and larynx–and often progress silently in their early stages. Dr. Michael Cohen provides expert screening, diagnosis, and coordinated care for oral cancers at his Long Island practice, helping patients navigate treatment options with a focus on both cancer control and preservation of essential functions.
Total professionalism! Dr. Cohen was tremendous. A knowledgeable,caring man who will spend the time with his patient to assure that they are completely informed and at ease with the process to remedy the problem. AND he solved my problem in the manner that he said he would. Great doctor-great person. Recommend him to anyone.

Expert Care for Oral and Throat Malignancies
Dr. Michael Cohen brings over 25 years of specialized experience in diagnosing and treating conditions of the oral cavity and throat. As a board-certified otolaryngologist recognized as a Top Doctor by NY Top Docs for 25 consecutive years, he plays a crucial role in the early detection and management of oral cancers.
“Early identification of suspicious lesions can significantly impact treatment outcomes,” explains Dr. Cohen. “As an otolaryngologist, I’m specifically trained to recognize subtle changes that might indicate precancerous or cancerous conditions in the mouth and throat. This specialized knowledge allows us to intervene at the earliest possible stage.” Dr. Cohen works collaboratively with oncologists, radiation specialists, and other experts when cancer is diagnosed, ensuring comprehensive, coordinated care.
Understanding Oral Cancers
Oral cancer encompasses malignancies that develop in the tissues of the mouth, throat, and surrounding areas. Approximately 54,000 Americans are diagnosed with oral or oropharyngeal cancer annually, with nearly 11,000 deaths from these cancers each year. When caught early, the 5-year survival rate for oral cancer exceeds 80%, highlighting the critical importance of regular screening and prompt evaluation of suspicious changes.
Common Sites of Oral Cancer
Oral cancers can develop in multiple locations within the mouth and throat:
- Lips and tongue, particularly the sides and undersurface
- Floor of the mouth beneath the tongue
- Soft palate and hard palate (roof of the mouth)
- Gums and inner lining of the cheeks
- Tonsils and base of the tongue (oropharyngeal cancer)
- Larynx (voice box) and hypopharynx (lower throat)
Most oral cancers are squamous cell carcinomas, which develop from the flat, thin cells that line the inside of the mouth and throat. Less common types include salivary gland cancers, lymphomas, and sarcomas.
Risk Factors and Causes
Several factors increase the risk of developing oral cancer:
- Tobacco use in any form (smoking, chewing, snuff)
- Heavy alcohol consumption, particularly when combined with tobacco
- Human papillomavirus (HPV) infection, especially HPV-16
- Prolonged sun exposure (for lip cancers)
- Previous history of oral cancer
- Age (most cases occur in people over 40)
- Poor oral hygiene and chronic irritation
- Weakened immune system
Understanding these risk factors helps identify patients who may benefit from more frequent screening and provides guidance for risk reduction strategies.
Warning Signs and Symptoms
Oral cancers often begin as small, painless changes that may not cause noticeable symptoms in their earliest stages. Regular screening is vital, as is awareness of potential warning signs:
Persistent Oral Changes
Any sore, irritation, lump, thick patch, or rough spot in the mouth or throat that doesn’t heal within two weeks should be evaluated.
Pain or Difficulty
Unexplained mouth pain, ear pain, difficult swallowing, or painful swallowing requires attention.
Color Changes
Red, white, or mixed red and white patches in the mouth or on the lips may indicate precancerous or cancerous changes.
Numbness or Tenderness
Loss of feeling in the mouth, face, or neck, or unexplained pain and tenderness in these areas.
Voice Changes
Persistent hoarseness or other voice changes, particularly when accompanied by a sore throat.
Swelling or Lumps
Any swelling, thickening, lump, or rough spot in the mouth, on the lip, or in the neck region.
Dietary Impact
Sudden weight loss, or difficulty chewing, swallowing, speaking, or moving the jaw or tongue.
These symptoms don’t always indicate cancer, but they warrant prompt professional evaluation, especially if they persist for more than two weeks.
Comprehensive Diagnostic Approach
Dr. Cohen employs a thorough evaluation process when oral cancer is suspected:
Initial Examination
Dr. Cohen conducts a comprehensive visual and physical examination of the entire oral cavity, throat, head, and neck. This careful assessment includes:
- Inspection of all surfaces of the lips, gums, tongue, and mouth
- Palpation of the floor of the mouth, tongue, and neck to detect abnormal tissue or enlarged lymph nodes
- Examination of the throat using specialized mirrors and lighting
- Evaluation of cranial nerve function to check for signs of tumor involvement
This thorough approach helps identify abnormalities that might otherwise go unnoticed during routine dental or medical examinations.
Advanced Diagnostic Procedures
When suspicious areas are identified, Dr. Cohen may recommend additional procedures:
- Endoscopic examination using flexible fiber-optic scopes to visualize areas not visible to the naked eye
- Brush biopsies or tissue biopsies to collect cells for microscopic analysis
- Imaging studies such as CT scans, MRI, or PET scans to determine the extent of disease
- Fine needle aspiration of suspicious neck lumps
- HPV testing when oropharyngeal cancer is suspected
These diagnostic methods help confirm the presence of cancer, determine its exact type and stage, and guide treatment planning.
Treatment Coordination and Approach
Treatment for oral cancer typically involves a multidisciplinary team approach. Dr. Cohen plays a key role in diagnosis, treatment planning, and coordinating care with other specialists:
Early Stage Management
For early-stage cancers, treatment may include:
- Surgical removal of the tumor with careful preservation of surrounding functional tissues
- Sentinel lymph node biopsy to determine if cancer has spread to lymph nodes
- Post-surgical monitoring and rehabilitation to optimize function and appearance
Dr. Cohen emphasizes function-preserving approaches whenever possible, particularly for areas critical to speaking, eating, and breathing.
Advanced Stage Coordination
For more advanced cancers, Dr. Cohen works with a team of specialists to develop comprehensive treatment plans that may include:
- Coordination with head and neck surgeons for more extensive procedures
- Collaboration with radiation oncologists when radiation therapy is indicated
- Referral to medical oncologists for chemotherapy when appropriate
- Integration of targeted therapies and immunotherapies for specific cancer types
Throughout this process, Dr. Cohen serves as an advocate for his patients, helping them understand treatment options and expected outcomes.
Post-Treatment Surveillance
Following cancer treatment, Dr. Cohen provides ongoing monitoring:
- Regular follow-up examinations to detect potential recurrence
- Assessment of treatment-related side effects and complications
- Management of long-term issues affecting speech, swallowing, or breathing
- Coordination with other specialists for comprehensive survivorship care
This vigilant approach helps identify and address any issues promptly, improving both cancer control and quality of life.
Prevention and Screening Recommendations
Dr. Cohen emphasizes the importance of risk reduction and regular screening:
Risk Reduction Strategies
Several approaches can significantly reduce oral cancer risk:
- Complete tobacco cessation (all forms)
- Moderation of alcohol consumption
- HPV vaccination for eligible individuals
- Regular dental care and good oral hygiene
- Use of lip balm with sunscreen for sun protection
- Diet rich in fruits and vegetables
These preventive measures address the primary risk factors for oral cancer development.
Screening Guidelines
Dr. Cohen recommends:
- Annual oral cancer screening for all adults
- More frequent screening for individuals with risk factors
- Prompt evaluation of any persistent oral changes or symptoms
- Dental examinations that include oral cancer screening components
These regular assessments increase the likelihood of detecting oral cancer at its earliest, most treatable stages.

Frequently Asked Questions About Oral Cancer
Oral cancer accounts for approximately 3% of all cancers diagnosed annually in the United States, with about 54,000 new cases each year. While not among the most common cancers, its impact on essential functions like speaking and eating makes early detection particularly important.
While tobacco and alcohol remain significant risk factors, there has been a notable increase in HPV-related oral cancers, particularly affecting the tonsils and base of tongue. These HPV-positive cancers often occur in younger patients without traditional risk factors.
When detected early, the 5-year survival rate for oral cancer exceeds 80%. However, for advanced cases, the rate drops to approximately 40%, highlighting the critical importance of early detection through regular screening.
Many oral cancers are preventable through risk reduction strategies like avoiding tobacco, limiting alcohol, getting HPV vaccination, and having regular screenings. These measures can significantly reduce both cancer development and late-stage diagnosis.
Any unusual change in your mouth that persists for more than two weeks should be evaluated by a healthcare professional. Don’t delay seeking assessment, as early detection significantly improves treatment outcomes.
Yes, HPV vaccination can help prevent the HPV infections that contribute to certain types of oral and oropharyngeal cancers. The vaccine is most effective when administered before exposure to the virus, typically recommended for adolescents and young adults.

Why Choose Dr. Michael Cohen for Oral Cancer Screening
- Board-certified otolaryngologist with specialized training in head and neck examination
- Over 25 years of experience in recognizing and diagnosing oral abnormalities
- Advanced diagnostic equipment for thorough evaluation
- Collaborative relationships with oncology specialists for coordinated care
- Emphasis on function preservation during treatment planning
- Recognition as a Top Doctor by NY Top Docs for 25 consecutive years
Prioritize Your Oral Health with Expert Care
Don’t delay evaluation of persistent oral symptoms or regular screening for oral cancer, particularly if you have risk factors. Dr. Cohen provides thorough, compassionate care for patients concerned about oral cancer, with a focus on early detection and optimal outcomes.
Expert screening and diagnosis are available at both our Syosset and Port Jefferson Station locations, making specialized care accessible throughout Nassau and Suffolk counties. Contact our office today to schedule your evaluation.