Signs of mouth cancer<\/p>\n
There are a lot of reasons why you need to get a regular appointment with your dentist. Aside from keeping your teeth and gums in the best possible condition they can also look out for potential health problems. One of these is mouth cancer. Knowing the signs of mouth cancer can ensure that you get the treatment you need as soon as possible.<\/p>\n
What is mouth cancer?<\/p>\n
Mouth cancer (also referred to as oral cancer which basically means the same thing!) is a form of cancer that can occur in various parts of the mouth-<\/p>\n
\u2022 The surface of the tongue
\n\u2022 Inner cheek
\n\u2022 Gums
\n\u2022 Roof of the mouth
\n\u2022 Floor of the mouth
\n\u2022 Tonsils
\n\u2022 Saliva glands<\/p>\n
Who can get mouth cancer?<\/p>\n
Mouth cancer usually affects people over the age of 40. It tends to affect men more than women. People who persistently smoke or drink heavily are at greater risk of getting mouth cancer.<\/p>\n
What are the signs?<\/p>\n
Look out for the following symptoms-<\/p>\n
\u2022 Red and white patches on the lining of the mouth and\/or the tongue
\n\u2022 Mouth ulcers or sores that do not heal or go away even after gels or other treatments are applied
\n\u2022 Persistent swelling in the mouth (in this case persistent means it stays for more than three weeks).
\n\u2022 Lumps on the skin or lining of the mouth
\n\u2022 The skin or lining of the mouth becomes thicker
\n\u2022 It hurts when you swallow
\n\u2022 Persistent pain on your tongue or in the neck
\n\u2022 Hoarse voice and throat pain that doesn\u2019t go away<\/p>\n
These symptoms alone may not be signs of mouth cancer. If you are concerned it is important to talk to a dentist. They will often check via a biopsy (checking sample tissue for cancer cells), endoscope (using a scope to check the throat directly) or imaging tests such as X-rays or CT scans.<\/p>\n
How is mouth cancer treated?<\/p>\n
There are various ways that mouth cancer can be treated-<\/p>\n
\u2022 Surgical removal of mouth tumours
\n\u2022 Mouth reconstruction (may be necessary after surgery)
\n\u2022 Radiotherapy (A common cancer treatment using X rays or other particles to destroy cancer cells)<\/p>\n
If mouth cancer is detected early enough radiotherapy may be the only required treatment. It can\u2019t be emphasised enough that early detection can prevent extensive damage being done which is why regular dental checkups are essential.<\/p>\n