What is Oral Cancer and How a Dentist in Delaware Can Help

Oral cancer is a very concerning condition and it is encouraged for everyone to receive an oral cancer screening. By having a clear understanding of what oral cancer is, along with the symptoms and causes, you can know when to visit the dentist for an oral examination and ensure that symptoms do not go unnoticed.

What is oral cancer?

Oral cancer is simply a malignant growth that develops in any part of the mouth. The earlier oral cancer can be diagnosed the easier it often is to treat. The following is everything to know about oral cancer, including what it is, the more common symptoms and much more:

Symptoms of oral cancer

It is important to be familiar with the symptoms of oral cancer and routinely check for any oral health concerns during your oral care routine. The symptoms of oral cancer include, but are not necessarily limited to, the following:

• An unexplained growth in the mouth
• A mouth sore that does not go away
• Difficulty swallowing or breathing
• A red or white patch inside the mouth
• Moderate to severe facial pain

If any signs of oral cancer are present, then be sure to visit the dentist for a professional examination and treatment. Oral cancer can be a real concern, but it is important not to self-diagnose and to stay calm if any symptoms of oral cancer exist.

Causes of oral cancer

The exact cause of oral cancer has not been determined, but there are various lifestyle and hereditary factors that can raise the risk of developing oral cancer, including:

• Tobacco use
• Alcohol use
• Human papillomavirus
• Sun exposure

Studies have found that individuals who use tobacco or alcohol in excess are much more likely to develop oral cancer than those who do not. It is encouraged for those who use tobacco in any manner or drink alcohol on a regular basis to limit their use, and it is vital for those who do so to visit the dentist regularly to ensure good oral health is maintained.

Oral cancer treatment options

There are treatment options available for those who are battling oral cancer. The most common forms of treatment include surgery to remove the tumor, chemotherapy, radiation therapy and immunotherapy. Cancer is never an easy condition to overcome, and it is important to do everything possible to limit the risk of developing oral cancer.

While quitting the use of tobacco and alcohol is a great place to start, other preventive techniques such as practicing good oral hygiene and avoiding too much sun exposure can be helpful as well.

Visit a dentist in Delaware for an oral cancer screening

It is important for those who are at a higher risk of oral cancer, and encouraged for everyone in general, to receive routine oral examinations and oral cancer screenings to ensure there are not any undetected signs of oral cancer present.

If you are past due for an oral cancer screening or experience oral cancer symptoms, then visit a dentist in Delaware for an oral examination.

Request an appointment here: https://www.sexton-dental.com or call Sexton Dental at (740) 363-2080 for an appointment in our Delaware office.

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