Hi Robert, welcome to the forum and you're going to find a lot of different opinions on that one. A lot depends on the stage of your cancer and whether there is any metastasis to the surrounding areas of your mouth - soft palate, base of tongue, larynx and/or the lymph nodes. Do you know any of that yet?
Next, it depends on where you are being treated and if it is a comprehensive cancer center or affiliated with one. Don't be afraid to get second opinions from doctors that are experienced in head and neck cancer and read the information on this site regarding treatments, you will find it extensive and helpful.
Ask questions and make the doctors explain their rationale to you for all their recommendations.
Regards JoAnne