Since some of the warning signs associated with oral cancer can be confused with other less serious dental problems, it is important for patients to learn more about the warning signs of oral cancer. Understanding the signs can help you determine whether or not the symptoms you are currently experiencing are indeed cancer-related. You can only know for sure by making a dental appointment for a thorough mouth examination.
Learning more about oral cancer will not only help in diagnosing the condition, but it can also help you understand how to prevent a cancer diagnosis in the future. Oral cancer can be located anywhere inside the mouth, e.g. lips, cheeks, gums, tongue, or hard palate. It can even develop in the tonsils and the back of the throat, making it more difficult to see.
According to the American Cancer Society, around 53,000 people in the United States will be diagnosed with oral cavity or oropharyngeal cancer in 2019. In many cases, oral cancers can be treated and managed in their early stages when caught early. Routine dental checkups consist of checking for cancer warning signs in order to catch any signs early and prevent the progression of cancer cells.
The following is a list of some of the common warning signs associated with oral cancer. When a patient experiences any of these warning signs for many weeks, they need to be examined by a professional as soon as possible. The sooner oral cancer is diagnosed and treated, the higher the patient’s chances of experiencing successful treatment and results.
When someone experiences pain in their mouth that does not go away or a sore throat that does not seem to heal, they need to be checked for oral cancer.
White or red patches that are present on the gums, tongue, and tonsils, or located anywhere in the lining of their mouth, is a sign that oral cancer may be present.
Experiencing difficulty when chewing or swallowing food is a warning sign. This includes experiencing problems moving the tongue or swallowing because the tongue is numb in certain areas.
While many people associate having loose teeth and bad breath with gum disease, they are also warning signs of oral cancer. This is why it is essential for everyone to make regular dental appointments, as a dental professional will know whether or not these signs are associated with gum disease or oral cancer, both of which require immediate treatment.
If you are experiencing any signs or symptoms of oral cancer, the only way you can be sure is by making an appointment with a dental professional. We will conduct a full and thorough examination, which will let you know exactly what is going on. Once your examination is complete, we will discuss the results and any necessary treatments. Whether or not a cancer diagnosis is made, these signs and symptoms should be evaluated and treated immediately. Our team can help you understand more about oral cancer and any symptoms you are experiencing or schedule a consultation appointment for a thorough evaluation.
Request an appointment here: https://sexton-dental.com or call Sexton Dental at (740) 363-2080 for an appointment in our Delaware office.
Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: Oral Cancer Screening in Delaware, OH.
Understanding the importance of an oral cancer screening is necessary, especially for dental patients who smoke, drink alcohol, or spend a lot of time in the sun without using some protection. According to the Mayo Clinic, oral cancer screening aims to identify mouth cancer early, when there is a greater chance for a cure.Learning what…
Asking a dentist about exams that help detect oral cancer is something every dental patient should do, as the more knowledge one has, the more likely they will be to make regular appointments to undergo an oral cancer examination. Dental patients are encouraged to ask a dentist any question they have, as this is ideal…
An oral cancer screening is often part of a routine dental examination. The frequency with which a patient should receive screenings depends on a number of considerations. These include a patient's age and the presence of any risk factors. The American Cancer Society recommends that patients over the age of 40 get a screening once…
Oral cancer is a serious disease that more commonly affects older patients. Still, younger adults — even those in the 20s — can have the condition. There are some risk factors that could make you more prone to the disease, so it is important to be aware of what can cause oral cancer.Cancer of the…
Minor oral surgery is required for the placement of dental implants. An implant is an…
Learn more about how oral cancer screenings work. This article outlines how common they are,…
Dental veneers are custom-fit shells made of porcelain or ceramic material.
A general dentist has many options to choose from when it comes to treating cavities.…
Implants can restore the full function of the mouth by improving the person’s chewing ability.…
Those that wear partial dentures can expect an easier eating experience, better speaking and an…
