Oral cancer makes up one in fifty of all cancer cases. However, unlike other types of cancer, people often struggle to name the symptoms or indeed know much about any other aspect of it. With this in mind, we outline what you need to know…
HOW TO SPOT IT
Any change in the mouth should be investigated by your dentist. Oral cancer can affect the mouth in a range of ways. While physical signs such as a lump, ulcers or red or white patches in the mouth may indicate oral cancer, so too may persistent pain or a change in the way you speak. Even a sudden loose tooth may be caused by oral cancer. Of course, many of these could also be symptoms of a much more harmless condition. Either way, the best option is to get these symptoms investigated as early as possible – whatever the cause, the sooner explored, the sooner it can be treated.
HOW TO AVOID IT
Ultimately, looking after your health is the best way of preventing oral cancer. Its two leading causes are alcohol and tobacco so abstaining from these substances is a great way of protecting yourself. Other risk factors include poor oral hygiene and a poor diet. Make sure that you are consuming a balanced diet and following a thorough and frequent oral hygiene regime.
HOW TO TREAT IT
Treatment options for oral cancer include surgery, chemotherapy and radiotherapy. Just one or a combination or the full three-pronged approach may be used to fight the cancer. If caught early enough, it is entirely possible to make a full recovery.
So if you do have any worries, please do give us a call today on 01603 621613.