Every year, April is recognized as Oral Cancer Awareness month. Healthcare providers from all around the world join their hands to spread awareness and discuss new plans of action to lower the incidence of oral cancer cases around the world. So, in the spirit of better health and awareness, let’s join our hands in the fight against oral cancer with wise habits and good food.
Oral cancer starts as a small ulcer or growth that does not heal. It can involve the lips, tongue, cheeks, floor of the mouth, hard or soft palate, and sinuses. If diagnosed early, oral cancer can be treated effectively with complete resolution. However, oral cancer spreads insidiously, and most people get diagnosed when their condition is too advanced.
This is where awareness plays a crucial role! Spotting a suspicious mole or an ulcer is key as it will prompt you to visit your dentist quicker and get an early diagnosis.
Some of the most common signs and symptoms of oral cancer are :
- Swelling, thickening, lumps, or rough spots on the inside of the cheek, tongue, gums, floor of the mouth, hard palate, and soft palate.
- Whitish or reddish patches in the mouth.
- Loss of sensation in any area of the face or mouth.
- Persistence sores or ulcers that do not seem to heel or shrink.
- Difficulty chewing or swallowing.
- Weight loss.
- Jaw-joint pain.
- Persistent facial swelling.
The risk of oral cancer is highest in smokers and smokeless tobacco consumers. It is also found that oral cancer is much more common in chronic alcoholics than non-drinkers. A positive family history of cancer and excessive sun exposure can predispose you to lip or cheek oral cancer.
If you have any of the symptoms mentioned above or have any risk factors, please reach out to us at Wilmington Periodontics and Implants today and consult our specialist for a prompt diagnosis. Our team is here to help you win this battle against oral cancer.
