Oral cancer, also known as mouth cancer, refers to a group of cancers that develop in the tissues of your mouth and throat. It’s a prevalent form of head and neck cancer, primarily affecting the tongue, lips, gums, inner cheeks, and the roof and floor of the mouth. Early detection is crucial for successful treatment, so understanding the signs and causes of oral cancer is vital.

10 Symptoms of Oral Cancer to Be Aware Of

While some symptoms may mimic common mouth issues, it’s important to be aware of persistent signs that could indicate oral cancer:

1. Mouth Sores That Don’t Heal: A sore or ulcer on your lip or inside your mouth that persists for more than two weeks is a potential warning sign.
2. Lumps in Your Mouth or Neck: A lump or mass in your mouth, tongue, cheek, or jaw could be a sign of cancerous growth.
3. Bleeding in Your Mouth: Unexplained bleeding in your mouth, even without any injury, can be a symptom of oral cancer.
4. Loose Teeth: Teeth that become loose or fall out without any apparent dental problem could be related to oral cancer affecting the jawbone.
5. Pain in Your Mouth or Throat: Persistent pain in your mouth, tongue, or throat that doesn’t subside with pain relievers can be a cause for concern.
6. Difficulty Swallowing: If you experience discomfort or difficulty swallowing, it could be a symptom of oral cancer affecting the throat muscles.
7. Changes in Your Voice: A hoarse voice or voice changes that don’t improve with time can be a sign of oral cancer in the throat.
8. Numbness in Your Mouth or Face: Numbness in a specific area of your mouth, lip, or face can be a symptom of nerve damage caused by oral cancer.
9. White or Red Patches on Gums or Tongue: While not always cancerous, persistent white or red patches on your gums, tongue, or inner cheeks warrant a dental examination.
10. Dramatic Weight Loss: Unexpected weight loss without a change in diet or exercise can be a general sign of cancer, including oral cancer.

5 Main Causes of Oral Cancer

Several factors can increase your risk of developing oral cancer. Here are the five leading causes:

1. Tobacco Use: Smoking cigarettes, cigars, pipes, or chewing tobacco are significant risk factors for oral cancer. Tobacco contains numerous carcinogens that damage the mouth’s tissues.
2. Heavy Alcohol Consumption: Excessive alcohol consumption, especially when combined with tobacco use, significantly increases the risk of oral cancer. Alcohol weakens the body’s immune system, making it harder to fight off cancer cells.
3. Human Papillomavirus (HPV) Infection: Certain strains of HPV, particularly HPV-16, are increasingly linked to oropharyngeal cancers, which affect the back of the throat and tonsils. Vaccination against HPV can help reduce this risk.
4. Sun Exposure: While less common, excessive sun exposure can increase the risk of lip cancer. Sun protection measures like hats and lip balm with SPF are essential.
5. Chronic Irritation: Long-term irritation from ill-fitting dentures, rough teeth, or other sharp objects in the mouth can contribute to oral cancer development.

How to Approach Oral Cancer Treatment 

Unfortunately, there isn’t a single “cure” for oral cancer. However, with early detection and appropriate treatment, there’s a good chance of achieving long-term remission and managing the disease effectively.

The specific treatment options depend on the stage and location of the cancer. The most common treatment approaches include:

• Surgery: This is often the primary treatment for oral cancer, aiming to remove the cancerous tissue and surrounding healthy margins.
• Radiation Therapy: High-energy radiation beams are used to target and destroy cancer cells.
• Chemotherapy: Anti-cancer drugs are administered to kill cancer cells throughout the body.
• Targeted Therapy: These newer drugs target specific vulnerabilities in cancer cells, offering a more precise approach.
• Immunotherapy: This treatment aims to boost the body’s immune system to recognize and fight cancer cells.

The success rate of oral cancer treatment depends heavily on early detection. Regular dental checkups and self-examinations are crucial for identifying any suspicious signs early on. If you notice any of the symptoms listed above, don’t hesitate to schedule an appointment with your dentist or doctor right away.

Remember, early detection is key to successful oral cancer treatment. By understanding the signs, causes, and treatment options, you can take proactive steps and visit the best dentist in baulkham hills to protect your oral health and well-being.