Oral cancer is a type of cancer that affects the mouth, lips, or tongue. These are all areas of the face that are hidden and therefore it becomes difficult to recognise the signs and symptoms of oral cancer. It’s important to know the warning signs, especially for men and women with an increased risk of developing oral cancer. It can occur at any age (regardless of smoking history) and most commonly occurs among individuals who smoke, drink heavily, or have chronic inflammatory conditions such as HPV (human papillomavirus) infection or chronic herpes simplex virus (HSV).
The good news is that oral cancer – like many other cancers – can be prevented and treated successfully. In fact, in 2018, the five-year survival rate for those diagnosed with oral cancer was 94 percent! Read on to learn more about this condition in our article below.
What is Oral Cancer?
Oral cancer is a type of cancer that starts in the tissues that make up the oral cavity. This area includes your lips, lining of the mouth, floor of the mouth, palate, gums, and the inside of your cheeks. Oral cancer is not a single disease, but a group of cancers. Oral cancer can start in any tissue in the oral cavity. Some of the most common types of oral cancer include squamous cell carcinoma, melanoma, and lymphomas.
The risk of developing oral cancer increases with age, tobacco and alcohol use, and certain infections. Oral cancers are staged according to the TNM system. The stage is determined by the type of cancer, how far it has spread, and whether it has grown into nearby tissues or lymph nodes.
Oral Cancer Symptoms
Red or white patches in the mouth or on the gums – If a lesion is not painful, it may be difficult to detect.
This is why it is so important to be aware of the signs and symptoms of oral cancer. If you think that you have any of the symptoms mentioned below then you can get yourself checked at Neo dental clinic, which provides one of the best Oral Cancer Detection in Noida.
Sores that don’t heal – This can be a sign of oral cancer, as well as other diseases. Sores inside the mouth, tissue inside the mouth, including the tongue and the lining of the mouth, can become affected.
Bleeding inside the mouth – This is often a sign of a problem (not just a normal occurrence).
Pain in the mouth or gums – This can be a sign of oral cancer, especially if it persists.
Difficulty eating – This can be a sign of oral cancer on the tongue or in the mouth.
A lump in the mouth or on your neck – This can be a sign of oral cancer.
If you have any queries relating to oral cancer you can post your queries here at clinicspots.
Oral Cancer Diagnosis
No single test is used to diagnose oral cancer. Instead, a healthcare provider will take a medical history, conduct a physical exam, and order diagnostic tests as needed. A thorough dental exam will be conducted.
biopsy: A thorough dental exam and biopsy may be needed to get a correct diagnosis.
A complete medical history: Your healthcare provider will want to know about your health, any allergies, and medications you are taking. He or she will also ask about your family’s health. This information can help identify risk factors and get a correct diagnosis.
Physical exam: Your healthcare provider will examine your mouth, gums, and neck to look for any abnormal areas.
Treatment Options for Oral Cancer
Oral cancer treatments depend on the size of the cancer and where it is located. Some patients undergo surgery to remove the cancer and nearby lymph nodes. Others are treated with chemotherapy and radiation. If the cancer has spread to other parts of the body, a combination of surgery and chemotherapy may be used.
- HPV Vaccination – HPV vaccination can lower the risk of developing HPV-related oral cancers, including the most common squamous cell carcinoma.
- Contraceptives – Oral contraceptives can reduce the risk of developing squamous cell carcinoma.
- Diet and exercise – A healthy diet and exercise can help to prevent many cancers.
- Quit smoking and reduce alcohol consumption – Tobacco use and excess alcohol can increase the risk of developing oral cancer.
Conclusion
At any age, it is important to be aware of the signs and symptoms of oral cancer. This can be a difficult task for many people, as oral cancers often do not cause noticeable symptoms in the early stages. By knowing the risk factors and warning signs of oral cancer, you can take steps to protect your oral health.
Taking care of your teeth and gums can help you to prevent oral cancer. If you are living in Noida or anywhere nearby and are planning to go for a checkup then at Neo dental clinic, which provides one of the best oral cancer detection in Noida.
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