Be Aware and Proactive Against Oral Cancer

By Alexa Brown, Dental Assistant

Michael King DDS (Mira Dental Care)

More Cancer Awareness Articles

Be Aware and Proactive Against Oral Cancer

What Is Oral Cancer?

Oral cancer is known as the head and neck cancer. It appears as a growth or a sore in the mouth that does not go away. Cancer in the lip, tongue, cheeks, floor of the mouth, hard and soft palate, sinuses, and pharynx (throat) are all related to oral cancer. Oral cancer can be life threatening if not treated right away.

What Are the Symptoms
Of Oral Cancer?

When looking in your mouth, if there are visible red and white blisters, or sores, this can be the beginning of oral cancer. You should immediately contact your doctor. If you have difficultly swallowing, earaches or bleeding in the mouth this is also a sign of oral cancer. It is important, not to over look these symptoms.

How Can I Get Treated?

Treatment is based on the location and the stage of the cancer. There are four stages of oral cancer and several different locations where the cancer can originate.

The most common locations are the side of the mouth, and the undersurface of the tongue.

The longer you wait to be treated, the worse the cancer can become. The doctor can prescribe drugs for a patient that has an early stage of oral cancer. Other patients who have oral cancer will have to go through surgery, radiation, or chemotherapy.

How Can I Prevent Myself
From Getting Oral Cancer?

It is very important to have yearly check-ups with your dentist. This will give your dentist the opportunity to know what is going on in your mouth before anything can begin to develop. It is also very important to brush and floss two to three times a day. Stay away from smoking or chewing tobacco, and only drink moderately.

For any further questions, contact your dental professional.