WHAT IS ORAL/MOUTH CANCER?
Cancer that originates in the mouth region is referred to as mouth cancer, sometimes known as oral cancer or cancer of the oral cavity. The cells lining the mouth are the source of mouth cancer. Then, damaged cells may proliferate out of control to become a tumour. These can originate in the cheeks, gums, roof of the mouth, tonsils, and salivary glands, although they most frequently appear on the lips, tongue, and floor of the mouth.
Tobacco and alcohol use are the two main risk factors for mouth cancer, and their combined effect is much bigger. Men are three times more likely than women to suffer mouth cancer, and the risk rises with age. If detected early enough, mouth cancer can be treated, therefore it’s critical to visit your dentist or physician right away if you observe any abnormalities in your mouth.
Mouth cancer signs and symptoms
Symptoms of mouth cancer can include:
- a lump in your neck
- loose teeth
- swelling or a sore on your lip that won’t heal
- difficult or painful swallowing
- changes in speech
- bleeding or numbness in the mouth
- white or red patches on the mouth, tongue or gums
- unexplained weight loss.
Causes of mouth cancer
The main risk factors for most mouth cancers are tobacco and alcohol consumption. Other risk factors can include:
- human papillomavirus (HPV)
- epstein-barr virus (EBV)
- family history of mouth cancers
- poor oral hygiene and gum disease
- exposure to the sun
- chewing the seed of the areca palm tree (sometimes called areca or betel nut).
Reducing your risk of mouth cancer
It is crucial to schedule routine examinations with your oral health provider and to let them know about any changes to your oral health, particularly if you have had a lump or mouth ulcer for longer than two weeks.
You can lower your risk of mouth cancer by doing the following:
- Stop smoking or chewing tobacco
- Reduce the amount of alcohol you drink
- Eat a healthy diet, including plenty of non-starchy vegetables and fruit (which are thought to help lower the risk of mouth cancer)
- Keep a healthy body weight
- Use sun protection on your lips
For more information on oral cancer management, and to detect the cancer in its early stages, please contact our clinic – Dr. Ramisz Dental & Facial Cosmetic Clinic.