Oral Cavity Cancer

Cancer is defined as the uncontrollable growth of cells that invade and cause damage to surrounding tissue. Oral cancer appears as a growth or sore in the mouth that does not go away.

Symptoms of Oral Cavity Cancer:

Swellings/thickenings, lumps or bumps, rough spots/crusts/or eroded areas on the lips, gums, or other areas inside the mouth.

The development of velvety white, red, or speckled (white and red) patches in the mouth.

Unexplained bleeding in the mouth

Unexplained numbness, loss of feeling, or pain/tenderness in any area of the face, mouth, or neck.

Persistent sores on the face, neck, or mouth that bleed easily and do not heal within 2 weeks

A soreness or feeling that something is caught in the back of the throat.

Difficulty chewing or swallowing, speaking, or moving the jaw or tongue.

Ear pain

A change in the way your teeth or dentures fit together

Risk factors for the development of Oral Cavity Cancer:

Smoking Cigarette, cigar, or pipe smokers are six times more likely than nonsmokers to develop oral cancers.

Smokeless tobacco users Users of dip, snuff, or chewing tobacco products are 50 times more likely to develop cancers of the cheek, gums, and lining of the lips.

Excessive consumption of alcohol Oral cancers are about six times more common in drinkers than in nondrinkers.

Family history of cancer

Prevention of Oral Cavity Cancer:

Don't smoke or use any tobacco products and drink alcohol in moderation

Eat a well balanced diet.