Becky --

I agree with David (and everyone else). My husband's cancer was not identified until the excisional biopsy that, fortunately, removed it all. Because his first pathology report showed dysplasia, and not cancer, a local ENT did the excisional biopsy. But as soon as that biopsy report came back showing cancer, he was seen by an ENT at a comprehensive cancer center an hour or so away, where ALL they see is oral cancer. Had further treatment been required, he would have gone there instead of a closer local facility.

The ENT who did the biopsy is an excellent doctor and was well trained (chief ENT resident at the Mayo Clinic, etc.). But as a general ENT, he also puts in ear tubes, repairs deviated septums and such. His focus is not oral cancer.

Especially given the wide variation of treatments your doctor has presented, it's in your best interest to be seen at a cancer center where a team of doctors from a variety of specialties (surgery/radiation/chemo/etc.) will come up with a personalized and coordinated treatment plan. You want doctors who deal with oral cancer every day. Most cancer centers react quickly when a second opinion is requested -- just be sure you have copies of your reports from your current doctor, the lab reports and slides from your biopsy.

And keep coming back -- this is a great place for information and comfort.