Oral cancer is one of the most common cancers today and has one of the lowest survival rates. According to The National Cancer Institute, the number of new cases of oral cancer continues to increase, but fewer than half of all people diagnosed with oral cancer are ever cured. Oral cancer most commonly involves the tongue but can include the lips, gums, palate and other soft tissues. Complications from cancer treatment such as dry mouth, sensitive teeth, oral ulcers and accelerated tooth decay are usually chronic.

Prevention is the best medicine. Staying away from tobacco, betel nut, excessive alcohol, excessive sun exposure, and HPV infection are important. A diet rich in fruits and vegetables, regular exercise and good oral hygiene are important for good health.

Early detection is essential to prevent spread to the face and neck, leading to disfigurement and poor quality of life. At our office, oral cancer screening is routinely conducted twice for children and adults as part of the routine visit, once by the hygienist and again by the dentist. Early signs of oral cancer usually occur in the form of lumps, patchy white and red areas, or breaks in the tissues of the mouth. In many cases, these abnormalities are not painful in the early stages, making self-diagnosis difficult. Suspicious lesions may be sampled for evaluation. A biopsy collects cells from all layers of a lesion for microscopic viewing to determine whether abnormal cells are present.

Warning Signs

• Unusual bleeding or persistent sores in the mouth that won’t heal
• Hoarseness or difficulty swallowing
• Lumps or growths in other nearby areas, such as the throat or neck

For more information about oral cancer screening, or to book an appointment, please call our Scarborough Centenary Dental office today at 416-281-4746.