Cancer is a disease that is caused by the abnormal growth of cells in the body. These cells cluster together and prevent the organs from functioning well in their presence. Unfortunately, oral cancer is as dangerous as other types of cancer.
Oral cancers are often diagnosed as squamous cell carcinoma or squamous cell carcinoma (squamous cell carcinoma). These types of malignancies are present for approximately 90% of oral cancers.
What to look for
It is very important to pay attention to the growth that is found on the face, especially when exposed to the sun. It is also important to palpate your lymph nodes regularly to see abnormal lymph nodes as quickly as possible. In the case of a swollen lymph node, it is important to consult a health professional, whether a dentist or a doctor, to put aside the possibility of an influenza or dental infection that causes inflammation of the lymph nodes.
What are the symptoms of oral cancer?
– The presence of red, white or tinged white or red patches on the lips or in the mouth;
- The appearance of ulcers or lesions on the lip or in the mouth that do not heal;
- The appearance of a mass on the lip or in the mouth including the tongue;
- sudden thickening of a cheek, accompanied by bleeding in the mouth;
- pains in the mouth that do not disappear;
- an earache that persists;
- teeth that begin to move in the mouth
- dentures that are no longer snug in the mouth;
- Having difficulty articulating words when speaking;
- Swelling of the salivary glands;
- The swelling of the lymph nodes in the neck or jaw;
- numbness or loss of sensation on the tongue or lips.
What are the risk factors for oral cancer?
- Age is an important factor for the development of this cancer;
- Any consumption of tobacco products is a high-risk factor;
- excessive consumption of alcoholic products;
- contraction of HPV (human papilloma virus);
- A diet low in vitamins and minerals.
How to prevent oral cancer?
- Have good oral hygiene: brush your teeth three times a day and floss your teeth.
- Stop smoking.
- Limit alcohol consumption.
- Do not forget to use a sun protection on the lips.
- Eat a varied and healthy diet so as not to develop nutritional deficiencies.
- Do not forget the use of condoms during sex to make sure you do not get HPV in addition to all other sexually transmitted infections.
If you have questions about the habits you can take to prevent the formation of oral cancers, talk to your dentist at your next visit, he will be happy to give you personalized advice to your lifestyle to help you to keep a healthy smile!
Approved by Dre Charouk
Dr. Joumana Charouk, D.M.D, is proud to offer her patients exceptional care that combines experience, efficiency and good humor.
Dre Joumana Charouk, D.M.D