WHAT IS ORAL CANCER?
Oral cancer refers to cancer that develops in any of the parts that make up the mouth (oral cavity). Mouth cancer can occur on the lips, gum, tongue, the inner lining of the cheeks, the roof of the mouth, and floor of the mouth (under the tongue). Cancer that occurs on the inside of the mouth is sometimes called oral cancer or oral cavity cancer.
Each year, about 53,000 Americans are diagnosed with oral cancer. The disease causes more than 9,500 deaths annually, which translates to about one death each hour. While oral cancer is a scary prospect, it’s not inevitable. There are things you can do to monitor risk factors and reduce your likelihood of developing the disease.
HOW TO PREVENT ORAL CANCER
Is there a way to prevent oral cancer? While it’s impossible to guarantee you won’t get oral cancer, there are several ways to reduce your likelihood of developing it. These include the following:
- Stop smoking
- Limit your alcohol consumption
- Eat a healthy diet full of leafy greens
- Be conscious about sun exposure, and use SPF when you go outside
- Get at least 150 minutes of exercise each week, or thirty minutes five times a week
- Maintain good oral habits, and see your family dentist for cleanings at least twice a year
3 COMMON SYMPTOMS TO LOOK OUT FOR
- Ulcers: That do not heal within 3 weeks
- Patches: Red and white patches in your mouth
- Lumps: Unusual lumps or swelling in your mouth
HOW WE CAN HELP
At times, it is necessary to test samples of an affected area to confirm the proper course of action. Here at North Shore Smile Surgery, we have access to the finest testing laboratories available and can be counted on for timely results.
If you are in need of a biopsy or have any questions please contact our office (847) 276-2500.
