According to the American Cancer Society, about
30,000 new cases of
mouth cancer will be diagnosed this year, and more than 8,000
people will die from it. Mouth cancer ranks as the sixth most common form of
cancer that can affect any part of the mouth or lips. When detected early, the
chances for successful treatment are enhanced. If left untreated, it can spread,
leading to chronic pain, facial and oral disfigurement, loss of function, and
even death. As a result, early detection and diagnosis of mouth cancer is vital.
Smoking and chewing tobacco significantly increase your risk. The carcinogens
in tobacco, alcohol, and certain foods are leading risk factors. In fact, if both
tobacco and alcohol products are used, one is 15 times at greater risk for
developing
mouth cancer. Exposure to sun also is linked to mouth cancer. Age,
gender, and genetics are factors, too. About 95% of all mouth cancers are
diagnosed in people 45 years or older. Men are twice as likely to develop mouth
cancer as women.
Mouth
Cancer Warning Signs
If you notice any of these symptoms, contact your dentist immediately for a
thorough screening:
- A persistent sore on your lips, gums, or inside your mouth that doesn't
heal within two weeks.
- Repeated bleeding in your mouth without any known cause.
- Swelling, thickening, or lumps in your mouth, neck, lips, or on the tongue,
often painless in the early stages.
- Difficulty chewing or swallowing food, or difficulty in speaking or moving
your tongue or jaw.
- Numbness or pain in your throat or mouth without any known reason.
- Color changes such as white, scaly patches or red lesions inside your mouth
or on your lips.
Preventive Measures
Following good oral hygiene practices, eliminating risk factors such as
tobacco and alcohol, and scheduling regular dental exams are important to
maintaining good oral health. Research also has demonstrated that eating plenty
of fruits and vegetables every day is a positive practice.
Dentists screen for
mouth cancer during regular routine check-ups. They feel
for lumps, tissue changes in your neck, cheeks, head, and mouth and look closely
for sores. Early detection of cancer and prompt treatment is critical. Ask your
dentist for more information about preventing
mouth cancer.
