The Signs and Symptoms of Oral Cancer
Oral cancer is characterized by abnormal cell growth in the mouth, lips, tongue, or throat. Early detection through oral cancer screening can significantly increase the survival rate, making early and curable stages more manageable. Individuals over the age of 45 are at the greatest risk, but regardless of age, it’s crucial to opt for an oral cancer screening in Toronto if you’ve experienced any of the following symptoms:
- Discolored patches in your mouth or on your lips, including white or dark red in color.
- Unfamiliar lumps or unusual changes in texture.
- Canker sores that won’t heal, numb patches, or persistent bleeding.
- Unusual tongue sensation, changes in taste, and difficulty swallowing.
The Risk Factors for Oral Cancer
Several behaviors and conditions are associated with a higher risk of oral cancer. These include:
- Tobacco use, such as smoking cigarettes, cigars, and chewing tobacco.
- Heavy or moderately heavy alcohol consumption, especially when combined with tobacco use.
- Possibility of a human papillomavirus (HPV) infection in the mouth.
- Excessive sun exposure, leading to lifestyle-related sun damage.
- Poor diet or poor eating habits.
- Family history of oral cancer.
- Oral cancer is more common in men than in women.
- A history of leukoplakia, a thick, whitish patch that develops inside the mouth.
Prevention, Detection, and Treatment of Oral Cancer
Spotting Early Signs of Cancer
The goal of an oral cancer screening is the early detection of cancer or precancerous conditions in your mouth. During the exam, your dentist will conduct a thorough examination, looking inside your mouth and under your tongue for red or white patches or suspicious sores. Your dentist will also feel the tissues in your mouth for lumps or odd textures and may also feel the outside of your throat and neck for lumps. This comprehensive check is crucial to detect oral cancer early.
Diagnosis and Treatment
If signs of cancer are detected during your oral cancer screening, additional testing such as a biopsy (removal of a small piece of suspicious tissue for lab examination) or imaging tests like X-rays, ultrasounds, CT scans, or an MRI may be required. To remove confirmed tumors, treatment options like surgery, chemotherapy, or radiation therapy may be necessary. Early detection through oral cancer screenings can significantly improve treatment outcomes and survival rates.
Prevention of Oral Cancer
To help prevent oral cancer, regular visits to your dentist for routine exams are essential. Additionally, avoid using tobacco products and drink responsibly. Be mindful of your exposure to direct sunlight and use U/V protective lip balms. Maintain a healthy diet with plenty of fruits and vegetables. During your routine brushing and flossing rituals, check your mouth for any signs or symptoms of oral cancer so you can report any concerns to your dentist immediately.
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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
If you have any risk factors for oral cancer, it’s a good idea to ask for an oral cancer screening during your regular dental exam. If you have discovered an unusually colored or textured patch in your mouth, a lump, or a suspicious sore, schedule an appointment to get it checked out. Early detection is key to treating oral cancer at a curable stage.
Your dentist will examine your lips and the inside of your mouth, including your cheeks, gums, and all sides of your tongue. They will also carefully feel for any lumps or unusual textures. The dentist may also feel your face, jaw, throat, and neck for unusual lumps or tenderness. Using VELscope technology, they can detect changes in the tissues of your mouth that are not visible to the naked eye.
Wash your hands with warm, soapy water. In front of your bathroom mirror, examine the roof of your mouth, lips, tongue, and gums. Pull your top lip up and bottom lip down to see behind them. You may use a piece of gauze or a cotton pad to help grip your tongue to check the sides and underside. Look at your gums and use your fingers to feel the insides of your mouth. Check for color changes, lumps and bumps, unusual textures, or tenderness. If you have any sores that have not healed after two weeks, let your dentist know.
In the early stages, mouth cancer may appear as small, usually painless, flat patches that can be red, white, gray, or yellow with red edges. These small patches can affect any area of the mouth, including the lips, gums, cheeks, tongue, and the roof of the mouth. As a general rule, it’s a good idea to have anything that looks or feels unusual checked out by your doctor or dentist. Early detection leads to higher chances of successful treatment.
Regular oral cancer screenings in a calm and supportive environment can help detect oral cancer early, increasing the chances of successful treatment. Taking proactive steps to monitor your oral health and being aware of the risk factors and symptoms can make a significant difference in the fight against oral cancer.
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