Despite the severity of oral cancer and the fact that thousands of Americans are diagnosed each year, it often doesn’t receive as much attention as other forms of the disease. It’s important to understand what oral cancer is, what causes it, the signs you may be suffering from it, and the importance of regular screenings. In fact, this can be life-saving information. Here are a few things you should know:
Understanding Oral Cancer
Oral cancer refers to the cancer of the mouth and upper throat. It can affect the lips, gums, tongue, inner lining of the cheeks, roof of the mouth, and the upper area of the throat at the back of your mouth. This type of cancer can be particularly dangerous as it can progress rapidly and may go unnoticed until it has advanced to a more serious stage.
Causes of Oral Cancer
There are several factors that can increase the risk of developing oral cancer. Tobacco use is among the most prominent risk factors. Smoking cigarettes, cigars, pipes, and chewing tobacco are among the leading causes of oral cancer. Meanwhile, heavy alcohol use can also increase the risk of developing oral cancer while exposure to sunlight can increase the risk of lip cancer. Additionally, certain strains of HPV are strongly linked to oral cancer.
Recognizing the Signs of Oral Cancer
Early detection is crucial for the effective treatment of oral cancer. Watch out for some of these common symptoms:
- Persistent sores on the face, neck, or mouth that bleed easily and do not heal within two weeks.
- Lumps or thickening of the skin or lining of the mouth.
- White or red patches in the mouth or on the lips.
- Persistent sore throat or feeling that something is caught in the throat.
The Importance of Regular Screenings
Regular screenings for oral cancer are important as they can help detect the disease at an early stage when it is most treatable. During a screening, a dentist will look for any abnormal changes in the mouth and throat area. At Capital Dental Group, we offer comprehensive oral cancer screenings as part of our routine dental check-ups. If you have not had an oral cancer screening recently or if you have noticed any changes or symptoms mentioned above, don’t wait. Give us a call at 661-861-8000 to schedule an appointment today!