Oral Cancer Screenings
Oral Cancer Detection & Treatment | General & Family Dentistry | Waterville, ME
With more than 50,000 adults in this country diagnosed annually with oral cancer, you can’t afford to wait.
When cancer occurs in the inside of the mouth, it’s known as oral cancer, and sometimes oral cavity cancer. It’s a very serious health issue and one that can be treated effectively if diagnosed early and taken seriously.
Mouth cancer, also known as oral cancer can occur anywhere in the oral cavity, including:
- Tongue
- Gums
- Lips
- Inner Cheeks
- Roof of the Mouth
- Under The Tongue (Floor of the Mouth)
Have a spot that’s worrying you? If you suspect it could be a larger problem than a temporary sore spot, it’s a good idea to make an appointment here at Waterville Family Dentistry.
Oral Cancer: Symptoms & Diagnosis
First, your local Waterville, Maine, dentist will look for other possible causes for the sore spot, including issues with certain teeth and/or an infection.
Signs & Symptoms of Mouth Cancer:
- Lip/Mouth Sore Does Not Heal
- Abnormal Growth Inside Mouth
- White and/or Red Patch(es) Inside Mouth
- Mouth Pain
- Ear Pain
- Loose Teeth
- Difficulty Chewing & Swallowing
Do I Have Oral Cancer?
On a scientific level, oral cancer is caused when a cell’s DNA mutates so that it continues to grow instead of dying off as would a healthy cell. Together, these mutating cells may form a tumor that can spread inside the mouth and to other parts of the body.
The most common area for mouth cancer are the inside tissues of your lips and mouth. How these cells cause oral cancer isn’t completely known at this point, but we can identify risk factors that may make it more likely, including:
- Alcohol & Drug Use
- All Types of Tobacco Use
- Too Much Exposure To Sunlight
- Compromise Immune System
- STD: Human Papillomavirus (HPV)
There is no one sure way to fight cancer of the mouth, but it is known that removing multiple risk factors can only help.
It’s pretty straightforward: don’t abuse alcohol, don’t use tobacco of any kind, don’t get too much sun, and make sure to come to Waterville Family Dentistry for your regular six-month dental checkups.
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We look forward to having you join our family here at Waterville Family Dentistry!