Checking our mouth and teeth by the dentist is necessary to remove any accumulated plaque and tartar, but also to restore damaged teeth.
An additional reason to visit your dentist on a regular basis, however, is the fact that, as a specialist, he can detect suspicious signs in the mouth that portend dangers, such as cancer in the oral cavity and lips.
The above warning was addressed by the British Oral Health Foundation (OHF), given that cases of cancer in the oral cavity have risen sharply. According to data from the OHF, more than 9,800 cases are recorded in the country, while 3,000 patients lose their lives each year.
The percentage in Greece is not small at all. According to the World Cancer Observatory (GCO), more than 600 cases are registered annually in our country. In fact, in 2020, 217 people died from cancer in the oral cavity and lips.
Also, the British Foundation stresses that it is vital to increase awareness of suspicious symptoms, given that only 12% of adults are aware of them.
Symptoms in the mouth that we should never ignore
Ulcer (sore) that does not heal within three weeks
Red or white spots inside the mouth
Unusual lumps or swellings anywhere in the mouth or larynx
However, as dentist Neil Sikka points out, speaking to the Independent, there are other symptoms that require evaluation by doctors, such as:
The loosening and loss of teeth for no apparent reason
Difficulties in swallowing
The development of persistent hoarseness or difficulty speaking
“Anyone who has these types of symptoms does not necessarily mean they have cancer,” he points out, adding that “further testing is needed.”
Oral cancer can affect people of all ages and genders. However, it is more common in men (67% of cases). In addition, almost 8 out of 10 cases are men and women over the age of 55.
Important risk factors for oral cancer are smoking, chewing tobacco, drinking alcohol and being infected with certain HPV viruses during oral sex.
When mouth and lip cancer is diagnosed early, the five-year survival rate exceeds 90%. However, in cases diagnosed at an advanced stage, the percentage falls below 25%. Five-year survival is a milestone that marks a cure from the disease.
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#mouth #symptoms #ignore
Table of Contents
The Importance of Regular Dental Check-Ups in Detecting Oral Cancer
Visiting your dentist regularly is crucial not only for removing plaque and tartar, but also for detecting suspicious signs in the mouth that can portend dangers, such as oral cancer. In fact, cases of cancer in the oral cavity have risen sharply, with over 9,800 cases recorded in the UK and over 600 cases in Greece annually [1]. The British Oral Health Foundation (OHF) stresses the importance of increasing awareness of suspicious symptoms, as only 12% of adults are aware of them [1].
Symptoms of Oral Cancer
Oral cancer can manifest in various ways, and it’s essential to be aware of the following symptoms that should never be ignored:
Ulcers or sores that don’t heal within three weeks [2]
Red or white spots inside the mouth [2]
Unusual lumps or swellings anywhere in the mouth or larynx [2]
The loosening and loss of teeth for no apparent reason [1]
Difficulties in swallowing [1]
Persistent hoarseness or difficulty speaking [1]
These symptoms can be indicative of oral cancer, but it’s essential to note that having these symptoms doesn’t necessarily mean you have cancer. Further testing is needed to determine the cause [1].
Risk Factors for Oral Cancer
Oral cancer can affect people of all ages and genders, but it’s more common in men (67% of cases) and people over the age of 55 [1]. Important risk factors for oral cancer include:
Smoking [1]
Chewing tobacco [1]
Drinking alcohol [1]
Being infected with certain HPV viruses during oral sex [1]
Importance of Early Detection
When mouth and lip cancer is diagnosed early, the five-year survival rate exceeds 90%. However, in cases diagnosed at an advanced stage, the percentage falls below 25% [1]. Early detection is crucial in improving treatment outcomes and increasing the chances of survival.
Regular Dental Check-Ups are Key
Regular dental check-ups are crucial in detecting oral cancer early. Dentists are trained to detect suspicious signs and symptoms, and can refer you to a specialist if necessary. By visiting your dentist regularly, you can reduce your risk of oral cancer and improve your overall oral health.
oral cancer is a serious health issue that requires attention and awareness. By being aware of the symptoms, risk factors, and importance of early detection, you can take steps to reduce your risk of oral cancer. Regular dental check-ups are essential in detecting oral cancer early, and improving treatment outcomes.
References:
The Importance of Regular Dental Check-Ups in Detecting Oral Cancer
Visiting your dentist regularly is crucial not only for removing plaque and tartar, but also for detecting suspicious signs in the mouth that can portend dangers, such as oral cancer. In fact, cases of cancer in the oral cavity have risen sharply, with over 9,800 cases recorded in the UK and over 600 cases in Greece annually [1]. The British Oral Health Foundation (OHF) stresses the importance of increasing awareness of suspicious symptoms, as only 12% of adults are aware of them [1].
Symptoms of Oral Cancer
Oral cancer can manifest in various ways, and it’s essential to be aware of the following symptoms that should never be ignored:
Ulcers or sores that don’t heal within three weeks [2]
Red or white