November is Oral Cancer Awareness Month. Oral cancer accounts for about 3% of all cancer cases in the United States each year.
What Is Oral Cancer?
Oral cancer is an umbrella term for several cancers that affect the mouth and throat. This includes cancer of the tongue, lips, gums, and floor and roof of the mouth.
The Causes of Oral Cancer
Cancers of the oral cavity and throat can occur without any identifiable cause but they are most often linked to the following:
- Cigarette smoking
- Chewing tobacco
- Excessive alcohol consumption
- HPV infection
- Frequent sunburns or sun exposure
- Genetics
While oral cancer can be diagnosed at any age most cases of oral cancer are found in patients over the age of 50.
Oral Cancer Symptoms
Oral cancer causes a variety of symptoms that affect the mouth, throat, and lips. This includes, but is not limited to, the following:
- Lumps on the lips or gums
- Rough spots in the mouth
- Swelling of the lips or gums
- Unexplained bleeding in or on the mouth
- Numbness
- Red or white spots
- Sore throat
- Hoarseness
- Difficulty chewing or swallowing
If you have noticed any of these symptoms, schedule an examination with your dentist as soon as possible. A complete dental evaluation can determine whether your symptoms are cause for concern or due to another underlying oral issue.
Preventing Oral Cancer
Preventing oral cancer relies heavily on the avoidance of risk factors and early detection. To reduce your chances of being diagnosed with oral cancer, you should avoid smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, and unprotected sun exposure. If you are concerned about potential symptoms of oral cancer, schedule an appointment with your dentist right away.
Early detection is essential for a good prognosis when diagnosed with oral cancer. David W. Piper, DMD, Family Dentistry, can help diagnose and treat oral cancer. We provide a wide range of dental services for patients throughout Largo, FL. Contact us online or by phone at 727-548-7100 to schedule an appointment.
Dr. Piper is a General and Cosmetic Dentist who has proudly served Pinellas County since 1993. Both he and his team of professionals provide high quality, gentle dental care in a relaxed, personalized, and caring environment. Treating patients like family sets his practice apart from others.
