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April is Oral Cancer Awareness Month

April is Oral Cancer Awareness Month. Over 50,000 people are diagnosed with oral cancer every year (over 70% being men). There are two places that oral cancer can develop: inside your mouth and in the throat region. Oral cancer typically develops as a sore in the mouth that won’t go away. It can be white, red, or speckled. Early detection is key to effective oral cancer treatments, so it’s important to make regularly scheduled check-ups with your dentist. Today we’re going to walk through the causes, symptoms, and treatments for oral cancer.

Causes of oral cancer

Heavy alcohol consumption and tobacco use of any kind (both smokeless tobacco and cigarettes) can put you at risk for developing oral cancer.

Because oral cancer most often occurs in patients over 40, age is also a risk factor. According to the National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research (NIDCR), oral cancer “affects more than twice as many men as women.

According to the American Dental Association (ADA), human papillomavirus (HPV), a sexually transmitted infection, has also been linked to oral cancer. Specifically in the back of the mouth or the throat. HPV-positive cancers typically develop at the base of the tongue and in the folds of the tonsils making them difficult to detect.

Sun block isn’t just for your arms and legs! Sun exposure can also cause oral cancer on the lips, so choose a Chapstick that has an SPF. Wearing a hat also helps cover your face when outdoors.

Symptoms of oral cancer

While we’ve always said that if you are experiencing any oral pain or discomfort, to make an appointment with your dentist. That being said, there are a few symptoms that warrant a more timely visit. Symptoms include:

  • Difficulty eating, swallowing or speaking
  • Any swelling of the jaw
  • Any numbness in any area of your mouth
  • A white or red patch inside your mouth or on your lips
  • Any lumps or irritation in your mouth, throat or on your lips

All of the above could be a sign of oral cancer. The main thing to remember about oral cancer is that it spreads quickly, so early detection provides the best possible outcome.

Oral cancer treatments

Typically when oral cancer is caught early, it is treated with radiation or surgery. If cancer has spread elsewhere, other treatments and specialists may be required. 

To reduce your risk of oral cancer, make sure to schedule regular check-ups with your dentist every six months. They will perform a painless exam of your face and mouth that only takes a few minutes to complete!

To book an appointment with Midlothian Dental Center, give us a call today (804) 794-4588.