Oral cancer is defined as cancer that happens inside the mouth. This can develop on the lips, gums, tongue, inner cheek lining, roof of the mouth, and under the tongue. The condition can be fatal, and it affects thousands of people each year. Early detection by seeking oral care services in Boise, ID, is important to successful treatment and favorable outcomes.
As a result, it is critical to be aware of the warning signs and symptoms of oral cancer in order to identify any problems and seek medical attention as soon as possible. Thousands of new cases are reported annually, and it’s best to be on guard. We’ll look at the most prevalent indicators of oral cancer.
Warning Signs and Symptoms:
- Persistent Mouth Sores – Undiagnosed lesions in the mouth that do not heal within two weeks are not a good sign. These sores might be harmless or painful, and they can be mistaken for ordinary mouth ulcers. It would be best not to take them lightly.
- Red or White Patches – A red or white area on the gums, tongue, tonsils, or mouth lining may suggest abnormal cell development. These patches may seem bumpy or gooey. It may be an indication of potential cancer development.
- Difficulty Swallowing – Dysphagia, or experiencing pain when swallowing, is maybe something to worry about. It can also feel like something is stuck in your throat or chest. A tumor obstructing the throat or esophagus causes this.
- Persistent Sore Throat – A sore throat is common, but it should not be disregarded if it lasts for an extended amount of time or is accompanied by other symptoms. According to the American Cancer Society, anyone who has been in this condition for more than two weeks should see a doctor right away.
- Hoarseness or Voice Changes – Voice changes, such as persistent hoarseness, is another condition that you shouldn’t take lightly. Again, if your voice doesn’t normalize after two or three weeks, it’s imperative that you visit a healthcare provider. A tumor may be affecting the vocal cords.
- Unexplained Bleeding – Unusual bleeding in the mouth, throat, or tonsils should be checked by a doctor as soon as possible. It could be the result of an infection, untreated injuries, or an underlying health problem such as oral cancer. Dental patients in Boise, ID, are advised not to wait and should go to the clinic right away.
- Loose Teeth – Oral cancer can weaken the tissues that support teeth and cause them to become loose or shift in how they fit together. If you have difficulty chewing, speaking, swallowing, or moving your jaw or tongue, these aren’t good signs that need to be checked on without delay.
Contributing Risk Factors
While everyone can get oral cancer, several variables make it more likely. These are too much tobacco and alcohol use, a sexually transmitted disease known as Human Papillomavirus, or HPV, age over 40, excessive sunlight on the lips, and poor oral hygiene. Oral cavity cancer affects men twice as much as women. This could be due to men being more inclined to consume tobacco and alcohol.
Visit the Dentist Regularly
Consistent dental check-ups are critical for our general well-being. It’s also crucial for the early diagnosis of oral cancer. Dentists recognize these suspicious signs and symptoms. They will conduct a complete examination and look for any abnormalities in the mouth and throat. You can get oral care services in Boise, ID.
Call or email Boise Dentistry Co. at 208-906-1255 or 208-939-7053. And our email addresses are info@boisedentistryco.com and office@boisedintistrco.com.