Gwynn told the San Diego Union-Tribune last week that his doctors had discovered a malignant tumor in a salivary gland.

The diagnosis of parotid cancer came after the former Padres star had a third round of surgery to remove a tumor on the parotid gland. The previous procedures had never been found to be malignant. Although doctors feel the Cancer was caught early enough for there to be no immediate dangers, Gwynn faces seven to eight weeks of treatment – radiation five times a week and chemotherapy once a week.

“They say this is a slow moving but aggressive form of cancer,” Gwynn said. “I’m going to be aggressive and not slow moving in treating this.”

Gwynn said he was concerned the cancer could be linked to his career-long practice of using chewing tobacco. Although there have been no conclusive studies proving a link between chewing tobacco and parotid cancer, both Absolute Dental and Minor League Baseball have issued statements about potential health risks, Minor League Baseball going as far as to ban the practice.

“Tony must be careful to be screened by a dentist qualified in diagnosing potential oral cancer, as well as having the ability to structure a plan that will assist him in protecting himself from further complications related to his radiation treatments,” said a representative from Absolute Dental in Las Vegas. “While the radiation treatments concentrate on effectively eliminating the cancer, the chances of damage to his salivary gland is of great concern. Saliva production will be limited or completely absent both during and after his treatments, which will result in potential damage to his teeth and mouth. The radiation may even have an adverse effect on his jaw bone, casing brittleness and disintegration. Tony must be sure to complete all outstanding dental work PREVIOUS to beginning his treatments in order to minimize the risks and potential negative dental after effects.”

For more about parotid cancer as well as early detection and diagnosis, visit www.AbsoluteDental.com or schedule a screening at an Absolute Dental location. Absolute Dental can be reached by calling 702- ABSOLUTE.