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Oral cancer is a dangerous, yet somewhat preventable, type of
cancer. It kills more people nationwide than either cervical or
skin (melanoma) cancer, and only half of all patients diagnosed
will survive more than five years. The most common risk factors
for oral cancer are tobacco use, frequent high quantity alcohol
consumption, constant sunlight exposure, habitual cheek or lip
biting, or poorly fitting dentures. Although the majority of oral
cancers are found in people who use tobacco and/or drink alcohol
excessively, 25% of oral cancers occur in people who have no risk
factors at all.
Your dentist could very well be your #1 soldier in the fight against
oral cancer. Statistics show in about 10% of patients, dentists notice
a problem area first. During a regular dental check-up, your dentist
will examine your entire mouth, searching for a flat, painless, white
or red spot or small sore. Other signs of oral cancer can include:
- A sore
that bleeds easily or does not heal
- A color change of the oral tissues
- A lump, thickening, rough spot, crust
or small, eroded area
- Pain, tenderness or numbness anywhere in the mouth
or on the lips.
Two different tests are used to determine if the spot
is cancerous or not. A brush biopsy is a painless test performed on
areas that
look harmless
or do not have a clear cause. This test can detect potentially
dangerous cells when the disease is still at an early stage. A scalpel
biopsy,
which requires local anesthesia, is usually performed on suspicious
and dangerous looking areas. Remember to visit your dentist regularly.
If
you notice any unusual changes in your mouth, call your dentist
immediately. Together you and your dentist can fight and win the battle
against
oral cancer.
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