Although mostly preventable, approximately 53,000 new cases of oral cancer occur each year. These make up about 3% of all cancers. Unfortunately, the death rate for cancers around the mouth remains higher than necessary for this very treatable condition because of late diagnosis. Therefore, you should contact Trident General Dentistry as soon as possible if you have any areas in or around your mouth that cause you concern.
What is Oral Cancer?
Oral cancer is an uncontrolled overgrowth of normal cells in the mouth or throat. These cells attack and harm the different tissues of the oral cavity, including the:
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Tongue
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Lips
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Floor of the mouth
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Palate
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Cheeks
Can Oral Cancer Spread?
Initially, cancer cells form a primary tumor in the mouth or throat that can cause considerable damage to the tissue surrounding it. It causes the most concern because of its ability to spread beyond the primary site. Cells from oral cancer can break off the primary tumor and travel to other body parts through the bloodstream or lymphatic system. When oral cancer spreads, it can travel to one or more of the following:
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Other parts of the oral cavity
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Lymph nodes of the neck
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Upper or lower jawbone
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Facial skin
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Salivary glands
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Lung
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Liver
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Bones such as the spine
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Brain
What are the Symptoms of Oral Cancer?
You may notice symptoms of oral cancer during its beginning stage. The signs and symptoms include:
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A persistent mouth or lip sore that doesn’t go away.
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Pain that never stops.
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Swelling in the affected oral tissue.
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A white or red area that persists.
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A sore throat.
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A full feeling in the throat.
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Difficulty eating.
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Numbness.
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Loose or painful teeth.
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Ear pain.
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Bleeding.
What Causes Oral Cancer?
The causes and risk factors include:
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Tobacco and alcohol. Each of these used separately increases your risk for oral cancer. Those who use both raise the risk even further.
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Gender and age. Males, especially over age 50, are twice as likely as females to get oral cancer.
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Heredity. A family history of cancer possibly increases your risk.
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Human papillomavirus. The number of oral cancers linked to this virus has risen during the past few decades.
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Obesity. Excess body weight increases the risk of several cancers, including oral cancer.
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Ultraviolet light. Excess sun exposure can cause lip cancer.
Can Oral Cancer be Cured?
Early detection is the key to curing oral cancer and not having it return. This makes it essential that you do not ignore any changes in and around your mouth. Early detection may require only surgery. However, if the cancer spreads, you may need radiation and chemotherapy.
How Can Oral Cancer be Prevented?
Fortunately, oral cancer is not only treatable but is highly preventable by taking these steps:
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Avoid tobacco products.
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Avoid alcohol.
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Use lip protection when in the sun.
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Eat more plant-based foods such as fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.
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Get regular dental checkups.
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Conduct regular self-exams to look for any changes in your mouth.
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Limit your time exposed to the sun.
Schedule an Appointment
At Trident General Dentistry, we believe it is important to know the symptoms, causes, and prevention of oral cancer. Call us today to schedule an appointment for a comprehensive exam and oral cancer screening.