It is important to be informed on oral cancer warning signs, diagnosis and treatment. If the disease is left untreated without early detection, it can be life threatening. At Central Avenue Dental, we want to give you information regarding oral cancer so you can be aware of what the disease really means for your health and how early detection can save your life.
Oral cancer can occur on the lips, inside the mouth, on the back of the throat, salivary glands, or the tonsils – cancers that affect these specific areas are more specifically referred to as oropharyngeal cancers. Studies show that 70% of oropharyngeal cancers are caused by HPV (human papillomavirus.) It also occurs more frequently in men than in women, and more commonly affects people over the age of 40. If you are a heavy smoker or drinker, you are more likely to be affected by the disease. In addition, tobacco chewers are 50 times more likely to develop oral cancer.
Unfortunately, you cannot always spot early warning signs on your own, but our expert dentists at Central Avenue are trained to detect early signs of oral cancer through visual exams and X-rays. However, come see us if you experience any of the following: a sore on the lips or gums, difficulty chewing, soreness in the mouth, swelling of the jaw, change in voice, or numbness in any part of the mouth. Once any of these signs are detected, if you are diagnosed, a specific treatment plan is created. Surgery may be required for treatment in combination with radiation and chemotherapy.
To prevent cancer from developing in your mouth, it is advised to stop all tobacco use immediately, as this is the number one cause of oral cancer. For early cancer detection come see us at Central Avenue Dental and we will perform an in-depth screening every time you schedule an appointment for your regular cleanings. Please call us at (704) 900-7301 if you have any regarding oral cancer!
