Cancer of the Mouth

You’ve heard about brain cancer, breast cancer, and lung cancer, but did you know that the mouth can develop cancer, too? Mouth cancer, a.k.a. oral cancer, results from abnormal cell formation within any part of the mouth. This condition affects people who are in their 40s and over, and is more prevalent among men than women. The American Dental Association estimates that about 39,000 Americans develop oral and pharyngeal cancer each year.

Risk factor increases with smoking, tobacco, and alcohol use; exposure to sun, radiation treatment, and certain chemicals such as sulfuric acid, asbestos, and formaldehyde; human papilloma virus infection; high diet of red meat, processed meat, and fried foods; consumption of betel nuts; and GERD (gastro-esophageal reflux disease).

Oral cancer is curable if detected early. Below are signs and symptoms to watch out for:

●     leukoplakia (white) or erythroplakia (red) patches on the lining of the cheeks or tongue

●     difficulty with mouth functions such as chewing and swallowing

●     tongue pain

●     jaw stiffness and pain

●     voice becomes hoarse

●     sore throat

●     neck pain

●     loosening of the teeth

●     mouth ulcers

●     swelling that persists for more than three weeks

●     lumps on the mouth’s lining

●     dentures won’t properly fit anymore

●     ear pain

If you, or a loved one, are experiencing any of these symptoms, it is important to see a professional right away for examination, diagnosis, and treatment.