Schedule AppointmentSigns of Oral Cancer
As April is Oral Cancer Awareness Month, our Lakeview dentists want to call attention to call attention to the nasty cancer that kills nearly one person every hour of every day. Oral cancer can appear on your lips, tongue, cheeks, the floor of the mouth, hard and soft palate, sinuses and your throat. As long as it’s diagnosed early, oral cancer can be treated. Here are some symptoms to take note of to ensure you’re not another statistic.
Most Common Symptoms
If you notice any bumps, thick parts, bumps, rough spots or eroded areas anywhere in your mouth or lips, this may be a sign of oral cancer. It may also appear via unexplained bleeding, numbness or tenderness. Ear pain, chronic sore throats, dramatic weight loss and an overall difficulty swallowing, speaking, or moving your jaw or tongue. While your mouth may not be completely problem-free at all times, if you experience any of these symptoms longer than two weeks, visit our Lakeview dentist immediately.
Who’s at Risk?
Men are twice as likely to develop oral cancer as women, especially men over the age of 50. Around 40,000 people are diagnosed every year, and you are at a higher risk of developing it if you are a heavy smoker or alcohol consumer. If you have human papillomavirus, you also may be at an increased risk.
The best way to combat the development of oral cancer is taking proper care of your oral health. Regularly brush and floss your teeth, as well as schedule routine visits with us to ensure everything is as it should be.
Source: WebMD
