Oral Cancer is a type of dental disease that results from abnormal cell growth in the lips, throat, tongue, and mouth. In Canada, statistics showed that about 1,090 people passed away from oral cancer in 2003. Here at Quarry Park Dental, we want to educate our patients about oral cancer to help lower the risk of acquiring the disease and prevent it from happening.
Lumps or colour changes of the tissues of the mouth, bleeding, sores that don’t heal, having difficulties in swallowing and dark red or white patches on the tongue, lips or mouth are some of the main symptoms of oral cancer. Going to your dentist regularly and undergoing an oral cancer screening test can help identify these signs and treat the disease as early as possible to improve prognosis.
The use of tobacco, drinking alcohol, a history of leukoplakia or thick white patch in the oral cavity, oral sex, poor diet, long exposure to sunlight and poor diet are the risk factor that causes oral cancer. If cancer is suspected, an imaging exam and biopsy will be done to diagnose the condition. Chemotherapy, surgery, and radiation therapy are the main treatment if diagnosed.
To prevent oral cancer, you should avoid drinking and smoking, avoid excessive sun exposure, eat fruits and vegetables, have a regular dental check-up twice a year and undergo an oral cancer screening test. Keep your mouth your overall lifestyle healthy to lower your chances of acquiring this disease. If you want to know more about oral cancer, contact or visit us at our dental office in Calgary, Alberta. We will gladly assist you with your concerns!