Oral Cancer

Causes: Anyone is susceptible to oral cancer but it is most often found in those who use tobacco products and alcohol. Used together, alcohol and tobacco heighten the risk for developing oral cancer. Prolonged exposure to the sun can also cause lip cancer.

Symptoms: The main symptom associated with oral cancer is a flat, painless spot, either white or red, anywhere on the mouth but other symptoms include:

• Tenderness, numbness or pain in the mouth or lips
• Change in oral tissue color
• A sore in the mouth that bleeds easily and does not heal
• A difference in the way teeth come together
• Difficulty speaking, swallowing, chewing or moving the jaw

Diagnosis and Treatment: A regular dental checkup includes an oral cancer screening, which is why it is important to see your dentist every six months for a cleaning and exam. Early detection is key with oral cancer as only half of all patients diagnosed with it survive more than five years. If detected early, the dentist can surgically remove precancerous cells that could develop into full blown oral cancer.