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Oral Cancer
Understanding Oral Cancer and the Importance of Regular Oral Health Assessments
Regular Oral Health Assessments are crucial for early detection and prevention of oral cancer. One of the primary reasons to attend your check-ups is to be screened for any abnormalities, suspicious lesions, lumps or bumps. All of our dentists and hygienists are trained to screen for oral cancer at every visit. As disturbing as it sounds, they are actively looking for it as part of their professional care for each patient. Detecting oral cancer early significantly improves treatment outcomes.
Oral cancer develops inside the mouth, typically on or under the tongue, lips, or gums, although it can also occur in the salivary glands or tonsils in rare cases. With over 600,000 people affected per year (and rising), oral cancer is twice as common in men as in women, and cases among young adults are increasing.
If you experience any of the warning signs listed below, contact us immediately for a free oral cancer check. Or, if it's been a while since your last dental visit, you may prefer to schedule an Oral Health Assessment instead.
Causes, Prevention and Symptoms
Several factors contribute to the development of oral cancer. A primary cause is use of tobacco – including smoking cigars, pipes, and chewing tobacco – along with excessive alcohol consumption and prolonged sun exposure. Avoiding these risk factors can significantly lower the chances of developing oral cancer. And eating plenty of fruit and vegetables can boost your overall oral and general health.
Signs of oral cancer may include an ulcer that lingers for over 2 weeks, a persistent unusual lump, mouth swelling, lip or mouth sores, red or white patches, and changes in mouth tissue colour or texture.
By understanding the risks, recognising symptoms, and prioritising prevention, you can take proactive steps to reduce your likelihood of developing oral cancer, and improve your chances of successful treatment if diagnosed.
E-Cigarettes/Vaping
Nicotine vaping might be less harmful than smoking, but it's not without risks. The healthiest choice is to steer clear of both smoking and vaping. Nicotine in e-cigarettes can stain your teeth and reduce blood flow to your gums, impacting gum health. Vaping can also lead to dry mouth, which might cause oral sores, tooth decay, bad breath, and a reduction in the natural bacteria that protects teeth. Long-term effects are as yet unknown, but recent research suggests that vaping upsets the balance of the mouth microbes.
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