The Signs And Symptoms Of Oral Cancer
Oral cancer occurs due to abnormal cell growth in the mouth, lips, tongue, or throat. Early detection significantly increases the chances of successful treatment. While individuals over 45 are at the highest risk, oral cancer screening is recommended for anyone experiencing the following symptoms:
Discoloured patches in your mouth or on your lips, including white or dark red spots.
Unfamiliar lumps or unusual changes in texture.
Canker sores that won’t heal, numb patches, or persistent bleeding.
Changes in tongue sensation, altered taste, and difficulty swallowing.
The Risk Factors For Oral Cancer
- Certain behaviours and conditions are linked to an increased risk of developing oral cancer. These include:
- Smoking or using tobacco products such as cigarettes, cigars, and chewing tobacco
- Heavy or moderately heavy alcohol consumption, especially when combined with tobacco
- Potential infection of the mouth by human papillomavirus (HPV)
- Excessive sun exposure or a lifestyle with lots of sun exposure
- A poor diet or unhealthy eating habits
- A family history of oral cancer
- Higher prevalence in men compared to women
- A history of leukoplakia, which is a thick, whitish-colored patch that develops inside the mouth
Prevention, Detection, And Treatment Of Oral Cancer
When it comes to cancer treatment, there’s no one-size-fits-all approach. We customise treatment plans for each person based on factors like how severe the cancer is, what type it is, and where it’s located. It’s all about making sure you get the care that’s just right for you.
Spotting Early Signs Of Cancer
During an oral cancer screening, your dentist looks for early signs of cancer or precancerous conditions in your mouth. They check for red or white patches, suspicious sores, lumps, or unusual textures inside your mouth and under your tongue. They might also feel around your throat and neck for any abnormalities. Early detection is key!
Diagnosis and Treatment
If your oral screening picks up any cancer signs, you might need more tests like a biopsy or imaging scans. Treatment could include surgery, chemo, or radiation to tackle any tumours they find. It’s about getting you the right care fast!.
Prevention of Oral Cancer
Taking proactive steps now can help prevent oral cancer later. Regular dental check-ups are crucial, so visit your dentist routinely. Quit using tobacco products and consume alcohol in moderation. Protect your lips from direct sunlight by using UV-protective lip balms. Maintain a healthy diet that includes plenty of fruits and vegetables. While brushing and flossing, check your mouth for any unusual signs or symptoms and promptly report any concerns to your dentist.
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to schedule an initial consultation & exam.
Your consultation will include an examination of everything from your teeth, gums and soft tissues to the shape and condition of your bite. Generally, we want to see how your whole mouth looks and functions. Before we plan your treatment we want to know everything about the health and aesthetic of your smile, and most importantly, what you want to achieve so we can help you get there.
Frequently Asked Questions
Early signs and symptoms of oral cancer include discoloured patches in the mouth or on the lips (white or dark red), unfamiliar lumps or unusual changes in texture, canker sores that won’t heal, numb patches, persistent bleeding, changes in tongue sensation, altered taste, and difficulty swallowing.
Individuals over the age of 45 are at the greatest risk for developing oral cancer. Other risk factors include smoking or using tobacco products, heavy alcohol consumption, HPV infection, excessive sun exposure, poor diet, family history of oral cancer, being male, and a history of leukoplakia.
You can reduce your risk of oral cancer by seeing your dentist regularly for routine exams, quitting tobacco products, drinking alcohol responsibly, protecting your lips from direct sunlight with UV-protective lip balms, maintaining a healthy diet rich in fruits and vegetables, and regularly checking your mouth for any unusual signs or symptoms.
During an oral cancer screening, your dentist will examine the inside of your mouth and under your tongue for red or white patches or suspicious sores. They will also feel the tissues in your mouth for lumps or unusual textures and may palpate the outside of your throat and neck for lumps.
If signs of oral cancer are detected during a screening, you may be asked to undergo additional tests such as a biopsy, where a small sample of the suspicious tissue is taken for lab analysis, or imaging tests like X-rays, ultrasounds, CT scans, or MRI. Depending on the results, treatment options may include surgery, chemotherapy, or radiation therapy.
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