Oral cancer can appear as a growth or sore that does not heal and can develop on and under the tongue. Oral cancer can also occur in the mouth tissue, gums tissue, and at the back of the mouth or throat area. Around 50,000 people a year are diagnosed with mouth cancer. 70% are men, and most are over 40. Mouth cancer can spread quickly and is much easier to treat if discovered early. Unfortunately, many people are diagnosed when their condition is advanced. Seeing a dentist regularly is essential to finding oral cancer early, making treatment less invasive, and increasing the survival rate.
What can increase the risk of Oral Cancer?
Smoking – Smokers are six times more likely to develop Oral Cancer.
Smokeless Tobacco – Dipping, snuffing, or chewing tobacco users are 50 times more likely to develop Oral Cancer.
Alcoholism – Heavy drinkers contract Oral Cancer at an increased rate.
Family History of Cancer – Genetics can cause inherited mutations that carry a higher risk of Oral Cancer.
Sun and Ultraviolet Light – Too much sun exposure can cause lip cancer.
Human papillomavirus (HPV) – Can cause some forms of cancer, including mouth and throat cancer.
Gender – Oral Cancers are twice more common in men than in women.
Poor diet – There is a link between Oral Cancer and not eating enough vegetables and fruits.
Chewing Betel quid and gutka – More common in southeast Asia and South Asia, people who chew these have a higher risk of cancer in the mouth.
Age – Most people have Oral Cancer when they are over 40.
Oral Cancer evaluations at Sage.
At Sage Dental, we are using VELscope, an Oral Cancer screening technology that uses blue light to detect early warning signs, pre-cancerous tissue, and early-stage cancer undetectable by the naked eye. We’re giving our patients an even greater chance to get ahead of this deadly disease. If you are considering an oral cancer screening, you can find a location near you to schedule your appointment as soon as possible.
Resources:
https://www.webmd.com/oral-health/guide/oral-cancer
https://www.nidcr.nih.gov/health-info/oral-cancer
https://www.cancercenter.com/cancer-types/oral-cancer/risk-factors
https://mysagedental.com/services/oral-cancer-evaluations/
