What To Know About Oral Cancer
At Emerald Dental, we are passionate about helping our patients have optimal and lasting oral health. This is one of the reasons we recommend our patients visit our office every four to six months for a routine oral hygiene examination and cleaning. During these appointments, we not only clean their teeth but also look for problems such as decay, gum disease, and oral cancer. We often speak about the warning signs to look for if you are experiencing problems with decay or gum disease, but do you know all the warning signs of oral cancer?
What Is Oral Cancer?
Oral cancer is a type of head and neck cancer that can occur anywhere in the mouth, throat, or oral cavity. Many patients are surprised to learn that oral cancer can also occur on the lips. It is important that you are not only checking your mouth for decay and gum disease but also the signs of oral cancer. Look at your lips, tongue, cheeks, and back of the throat for anything that appears abnormal. If you notice anything abnormal, contact our office immediately to schedule an appointment. Things you should be looking for include:
- Rough, white or red patches on your cheeks and tongue
- Sores on the lips or cheeks that do not heal
- Recurring bad breath
- Difficulty chewing and swallowing
Who is Prone to Oral Cancer?
While it is possible for anyone to develop oral cancer, certain people are at a greater risk of developing this disease. These individuals include those who:
- Use any form of tobacco product
- Have a family history of oral cancer
- Regularly visit tanning beds or sunbathe
- Vape
If you notice any of the warning signs mentioned above or it has been some time since your last visit, we encourage you to schedule an appointment in our office, which is located in Wilmington, DE. We are happy to help patients located in Wilmington, Pike Creek, and Newark, DE, and the surrounding areas. Please don’t hesitate to reach out if you have any questions or concerns.
