Oral Cancer Awareness

By Nahee Williams, DDS

Precious Smiles of Virginia

. http://www.precious-smiles.com/

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Oral Cancer Awareness

Oral cancer accounts for 2.9% of all cancer in the United States. Early detection may result in better treatment outcomes and may help keep you or someone you love from becoming one of the 9,750 people whose lives may be claimed this year by the disease. The 5-year survival rate of those diagnosed is approximately 60 percent.

The oral cavity includes your lips, cheek lining, gums, front part of your tongue, floor of the mouth beneath the tongue and the hard palate that makes up the roof of your mouth. The throat (pharynx) starts at the soft part of the roof of your mouth and continues back into your throat. It includes the back section of your tongue, as well as the base where the tongue attaches to the floor of your mouth. Cancer lesions can be found in any of these areas.

It's important to be aware of the following signs and symptoms and to see your dentist if they do not disappear after two weeks.

A sore or irritation that doesn't go away

Red or white patches

Pain, tenderness or numbness in mouth or lips

A lump, thickening, rough spot, crust or small eroded area

Difficulty chewing, swallowing, speaking or moving your tongue or jaw

A change in the way your teeth fit together when you close your mouth

If you have any of these symptoms, let your dentist know, especially if you've had them for two weeks or more.

Research has identified a number of factors that increase the risk of developing oral cancers. Men are twice more likely to get oral cancer than women. Smokers and excessive alcohol drinkers older than 50 are the most at-risk.

The human papilloma virus (HPV), which is sexually transmitted, has also been associated with throat cancers at the back of the mouth.

During your regular exam, your dentist will ask you about changes in your medical history and whether you've been having any new or unusual symptoms.

Then, your dentist will check your oral cavity. If there are any abnormalities the dentist will refer you for some additional testing. Together, you and your dentist can create the best strategy for diagnosis, treatment and prevention.

If you have had oral cancer before, you may be more likely to develop it again so keep up those regular visits.