How to spot the signs of mouth Cancer – Mouth cancer Awareness month.
November is Mouth Cancer Awareness Month, and that means it’s time to get educated about this disease. While mouth cancer isn’t as common as some other types of cancer, it’s still important to be aware of the symptoms and risk factors. Keep reading to learn more about mouth cancer and what you can do to stay healthy.
What is Mouth Cancer?
Mouth cancer, also known as oral cancer, is a type of cancer that affects the tissues in the mouth. This includes the lips, tongue, gums, and cheeks. Mouth cancer can also occur in the throat or back of the mouth, and it can spread to other areas of the head and neck.
Mouth cancer is most often diagnosed in people over the age of 40, and the risk increases with age. Men are also more likely to develop mouth cancer than women. Other risk factors include smoking, heavy alcohol use, and a history of other head and neck cancers.
Symptoms of Mouth Cancer
The early stages of mouth cancer may not cause any symptoms at all. This is why it’s essential to see your dentist or us regularly for check-ups. When symptoms do appear, they can vary depending on where the cancer is located in the mouth.
Common symptoms of mouth cancer include:
-A sore or irritation that doesn’t go away
-Bleeding or numbness in the mouth
-A lump or mass in the mouth
-Difficulty swallowing
-Ear pain
-Change in voice
Other conditions can also cause these symptoms, so it’s essential to come and see us here at perio and Implants or your dentist if you are experiencing any of them. We will be able to check for signs of cancer and rule out other possible causes.
Prevention and Treatment of Mouth Cancer
The best way to prevent mouth cancer is to avoid tobacco products and excessive alcohol use. It’s also essential to practice good oral hygiene by brushing your teeth twice a day and flossing regularly. Eating a healthy diet and avoiding too much sun exposure can also help reduce your risk.
If you are diagnosed with mouth cancer, treatment will depend on the stage of the disease. Early-stage cancers can be treated with surgery, radiation therapy, or chemotherapy. More advanced cancers may require a combination of these treatments. In some cases, a bone marrow transplant may also be necessary.
Next steps
Mouth Cancer Awareness Month is the perfect time to take steps to protect your oral health. Be sure to see your dentist regularly for check-ups, brush your teeth twice a day, and floss regularly. If you’re experiencing any symptoms listed above, don’t hesitate to make an appointment with us—early detection is critical when treating mouth cancer successfully.
