Understanding Oral Cancer: Symptoms and Risk Factors
Oral cancer manifests through unusual cell growth in the mouth, lips, tongue, or throat. Recognizing it early increases the chances of successful treatment significantly. While individuals over 45 are at a higher risk, everyone should consider an oral cancer screening if they notice any of the subsequent signs:
- Patches of discolouration in the mouth or lips, be it white or dark red.
- Newly-formed lumps or unexpected changes in mouth texture.
- Canker sores that do not heal, areas of numbness, or ongoing bleeding.
- Changes in tongue sensation, altered taste, or trouble swallowing.
Factors Increasing Oral Cancer Risk
Certain behaviours and conditions elevate the risk of oral cancer:
- Use of tobacco products, including cigarettes, cigars, and chewing tobacco.
- Significant alcohol consumption, particularly when combined with tobacco use.
- Potential human papillomavirus (HPV) infection in the mouth.
- Regular and prolonged sun exposure.
- An imbalanced diet or unhealthy eating practices.
- A family background of oral cancer.
- Men are more prone to oral cancer compared to women.
- A previous instance of leukoplakia, which is a thick white patch appearing inside the mouth.
Oral Cancer Screening: Prevention, Early Detection, and Treatment Approaches
Spotting the Early Indicators
The primary objective of an oral cancer screening is to detect cancerous or precancerous conditions in your mouth at their earliest stages. During this examination, your dentist will carefully inspect the inside of your mouth and beneath your tongue for any unusual red or white patches or concerning sores. Additionally, they’ll palpate the tissues in your mouth and the exterior of your throat and neck, checking for any abnormal lumps or textures.
Diagnosis and Tailored Treatment
If any concerning signs are identified during your screening, further diagnostic tests such as biopsies (where a small section of the suspicious tissue is sent for laboratory analysis) or imaging like X-rays, ultrasounds, CT scans, or MRIs might be recommended. Treatment options, based on the findings, might range from surgical removal to chemotherapy or radiation therapy.
Taking Control with Prevention
Begin your preventive journey against oral cancer today. Regular dental check-ups are crucial. To further lower your risk:
- Refrain from using tobacco products.
- Consume alcohol in moderation.
- Be cautious about prolonged direct sun exposure and use lip balms with UV protection.
- Maintain a nutritious diet rich in fruits and vegetables.
- As part of your daily oral care routine, self-examine your mouth for any anomalies and discuss any concerns with your dentist promptly.
Contact us today
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
If you possess any risk factors associated with oral cancer, it’s crucial to be vigilant. At our office, we prioritize your health by conducting an oral cancer screening during every routine check-up. Should you notice an odd-coloured patch, unusual texture, lump, or any concerning sore in your mouth, please bring it to our attention during your visit. If you have specific concerns, don’t hesitate to book a dedicated appointment for a comprehensive examination.
Your dentist will thoroughly inspect your lips and the interior of your mouth, encompassing your cheeks, gums, and every part of your tongue. They will also palpate the area to detect any anomalies like lumps or atypical textures. Additionally, the dentist might check your face, jaw, throat, and neck for any unusual bumps or sensitivity.
Begin by washing your hands with warm, soapy water. Standing before your bathroom mirror, inspect the roof of your mouth, lips, tongue, and gums. Elevate your top lip and pull down your bottom lip to view the areas behind them. If needed, utilize a gauze or cotton pad to grip and maneuver your tongue, enabling you to examine its sides and underside. Endeavour to inspect your gums, and employ your fingers to palpate the inner regions of your mouth. Be on the lookout for colour shifts, abnormal lumps, unusual textures, or any signs of discomfort. If you observe any sores that persist for more than two weeks, it’s essential to inform your dentist.
Tiny, often pain-free, flat patches can manifest in colours like red, white, grey, or yellow with reddish borders. These patches can emerge anywhere in the mouth, including the lips, gums, cheeks, tongue, and the roof of the mouth. As a general guideline, it’s wise to consult your doctor or dentist about any appearance or sensation that seems out of the ordinary.
Early detection of oral cancer can significantly improve the prognosis and chances of successful treatment. An oral cancer screening aims to identify cancers early when they are most treatable.
No, the oral cancer screening is a non-invasive and painless procedure.
Google Verified Patient Reviews
