Oral cancer is the one that originates within your oral cavity. It is one of those cancers which involve your head and the neck. Most of the oral cancers start from cells which line your throat and the mouth. Just like any other form of cancer, oral cancer if left undetected can prove lethal and can even take a person’s life. The good news is that with proper care, and regular medicals checkups, the chances of oral cancer can be reduced.
Let’s take a look at some of the facts about oral cancer.
Three Stages of Oral Cancer
Oral cancer is divided into three stages often known as TNM. In TNM, T indicate the tumor size, N indicates the spreading of cancer to the lymph nodes and M shows whether the cancer has spread to the rest of the body. In order to detect the stage of cancer certain tests are need to be conducted. These tests include the CT scan, MRI, X-ray and endoscopy.
Smoking and Drinking can Lead to Oral Cancer
Smoking and drinking are the two habits which can lead to oral cancer. Studies have shown that individuals who drink and smoke at the same time have a higher chance of developing oral cancer compared to those who don’t. Smoking and drinking in bulk and at the same time can maximize your chances of developing oral cancer.
Exposure to Sunlight Is a Cause of Oral Cancer
Sunlight is a big source of vitamins which are necessary for the human body. However, constant exposure to the sunlight can prove unhealthy. Individuals who spend long hours in the sun have a higher risk of developing lip cancer, which further escalates to mouth cancer. In order to protect your lips from the sun, using an SPF lip balm can be helpful. However, in recent years the cases of cancer as a result on sun exposure have reduced to increased awareness.
Early Diagnosis is Necessary
Oral cancer if diagnosed in the initial stages can be treated with ease. Some of the most common symptoms of oral cancer are constant pain, soreness and occasional bleeding. Most symptoms can be mistaken for cancer, but it is better to prevent it altogether. Seeing you dentist on a regular basis, can help you keep oral cancer at bay.
Common Symptoms of Oral Cancer
Here are some common symptoms of oral cancer
- Persistent lip and mouth sores that don’t heal.
- White or red patches inside the mouth.
- Lumps and growths inside the mouth.
- Ear and mouth pain
- Difficulty in chewing and swallowing.
Ways to Prevent Oral Cancer
Here are four ways to prevent oral cancer.
Stop Tobacco Consumption
One of the best ways of preventing oral cancer is to cut tobacco altogether. If you smoke or chew tobacco, give it up and if you don’t then do not start.
Drink Responsibly
Occasional drinking is not that harmful but if you drink on a regular basis, you can fall prey to oral cancer. If you are an adult above 65 years of age you should stick to just one drink a day. If your age is less than 65 two drinks a day are fine for you.
Avoid Sun Exposure
Sun exposure can be healthy but excessive exposure can be injurious. As mentioned earlier, apply an SPF lip balm when going out in the sun.
Regular Checkups
The best way to prevent oral cancer is to pay regular visits to your dentist. This will keep you updated on your oral state. Fore more information regarding oral cancer, give HPS Dental a call! We can be reached at (248) 652-0024. We look forward to hearing from you and hope this information will prove beneficial for you to try and prevent the risk of oral cancer.
