Early detection is key, and in addition to professional oral cancer screenings with your dentist, you should call your doctor if you notice anything abnormal.
Common Signs to Watch For
- Persistent oral bleeding or sores that won’t heal
- A lump or thickened area in the lining of your mouth
- Red or white patches on your gums, tongue, cheeks, or other soft tissues
- Chronic hoarseness or sore throat
- Difficulty swallowing or chewing
- Fatigue
- Unexplained weight loss
- Loose teeth
- Persistent bad breath
- Jaw and ear pain
We recommend that you to regularly inspect your mouth, including your:
- Gums
- Teeth
- Cheeks
- Tongue
- Lips
- Face
- Neck
Risk Factors for Oral Cancer
- Tobacco use
- Heavy alcohol consumption
- Human papillomavirus (HPV)
- Excessive sun exposure (especially lips)
- Fair skin
- Poor oral hygiene or nutrition
- Gender (men are at higher risk than women)
How to Help Prevent Oral Cancers
The best defense against oral cancer is prevention and regular screenings, which we offer at Main Street Dental Studio.
Here are some common tips:
- Quit tobacco.
- Maintain good oral hygiene.
- Eat a healthy diet and stay hydrated with water.
- Protect your lips from harmful sun exposure.
Contact Us to Book Your Routine Checkup
Please contact us if anything seems unusual or you have any concerns.