Oral CANCER AWARENESS
Oral Cancer, though scary, can be easily treated when detected early. Did you know? Oral cancer is one of the three most prevalent cancers in India. Spreading awareness is the only way to stop this deadly disease. Let’s understand all that we should know about oral cancer.
Like any other cancer, oral cancer is caused when the cells in your oral tissues multiply uncontrollably; these tissues can be your mouth, lips, tongue, throat, or jaw.
Each year, thousands of lives are affected by oral cancer, yet awareness of this disease remains relatively low. Oral cancer, which includes cancers of the mouth and the back of the throat, can have devastating consequences if not detected and treated early. Therefore, spreading awareness about oral cancer is crucial in improving early detection rates and saving lives.
Symptoms:
When spotting oral cancer symptoms, knowing where to look is essential. Oral cancer can affect both the mouth and the back of the throat. Here are some signs to keep an eye out for:
- A lump, irritated area, or sore in the mouth or throat.
- Difficulty chewing or swallowing.
- Red or white patches, particularly on the tongue or the floor of the mouth.
- Numbness in the tongue or another area of the mouth.
- Difficulty moving your jaw or tongue.
- Feeling like something is stuck in your throat.
- A firm lump in the jaw or neck area.
- Changes in speech.
- Mouth ulcer
If you notice any of these symptoms persisting for over a couple of weeks, seeing your dentist for evaluation and diagnosis is important. Early detection greatly increases the chances of successful treatment.
Preventative Measures;
There are many steps you can take in your life to improve your health and to decrease your risk of getting cancer, like:
- Avoiding tobacco products
- Avoiding alcohol
- Limiting processed meats in your diet
- Maintaining a healthy weight
- Protecting yourself from the sun
- Vaccinating yourself against viral infections
- Performing regular self-exams
- Visiting your dentist at least once every six months for checkups
Oral cancer shares many risk factors with other cancers. Increased awareness about oral cancer is essential to promote early detection.
When to See a Dentist:
Regular dental checkups are crucial for prevention, as dentists can detect early signs of trouble. If you notice any symptoms persisting for two or more weeks, such as mouth sores or difficulty chewing, it’s important to promptly schedule an appointment with your dentist. Early intervention can help address issues before they escalate into more serious problems.
At Shekhar’s Dental Care and Implant Centre, we understand that even the thought of oral cancer can be scary; our experienced dentist and supportive team are always available for you. If you notice any of the symptoms of oral cancer and are looking for oral cancer screening in Hyderabad, schedule your appointment with our expert.
