6 Warning Signs Of Oral Cancer
Since a young age, you have been taught the importance of visiting the dentist for teeth cleanings and other treatments. But did you know that your dentist can also diagnose forms of cancer? It’s true! Dentists are the leaders in diagnosing mouth cancer. While you need a dentist to give you a diagnosis, there are warning signs that may indicate a problem is brewing. Continue reading to learn about the symptoms you should look out for.
Mouth cancer is a type of head and neck cancer that can be detected anywhere in the mouth or oral cavity. Mouth cancer can be found on areas such as the lips, tongue, cheeks, and gums. Mouth and oral cancer is typically detected by a dentist during a routine exam, but there are symptoms that you can be aware of in your day-to-day life.
Signs of Mouth and Oral Cancer
There are numerous symptoms to be mindful of when thinking about mouth and oral cancer. While detection of these symptoms doesn’t necessarily mean a cancer diagnosis is in your future, it is still a great idea to make an appointment with our office to get your concerns addressed. Symptoms to look out for are:
- A sore on the lips or in the mouth that does not heal
- White or red patches in the mouth
- A change of color to the tongue, gums, or cheek tissue
- A growth or lump in the mouth
- Painful or difficulty swallowing
- Unusual bleeding in the mouth
Knowing these symptoms is important when doing self checks at home while brushing and flossing. It is also important to be mindful of your lifestyle. Tobacco and alcohol are major risk factors when discussing the likelihood of developing cancerous cells in the mouth. Tobacco use, linked to smoking and chewing, is considered to be the highest risk in terms of developing mouth cancer. Eliminating these major risks are only beneficial to your mouth and oral health.
If a symptom above leads to a cancer diagnosis, the chances of a cure are extremely high if detected early and treated immediately. These are additional reasons to stay up to date on your cleanings and treatment plan. If you notice any of these symptoms or are behind in your cleanings, please call our office located in Spring Hill, FL to schedule an appointment. We are here to keep your mouth happy and healthy!
