Oral Cancer Awareness: Protect Your Health

Oral cancer is a serious and potentially life-threatening condition that affects thousands of people each year. At Alaska Oral & Facial, we believe that education and early detection are key to protecting both your oral and overall health and are here to help if you have concerns that you may have oral cancer. This guide will help you understand the signs of and risks for oral cancer, empowering you to take proactive steps towards prevention and early detection.

What is Oral Cancer?

Oral cancer is a broad term that refers to any cancer that develops in the tissues of the mouth or throat. It can affect the lips, tongue, cheeks, floor of the mouth, hard and soft palate, sinuses, and throat. Some of the types of oral cancer include squamous cell carcinoma, oral cavity melanoma, and oropharyngeal cancer.
 
Early diagnosis is key, as treatment is more likely to be effective when the cancer is caught in its initial stages and treatment can be started promptly.

Early Warning Signs and Symptoms

Because there are multiple types of oral cancers, the signs and symptoms that a person may experience varies. Common early symptoms include:
  • Reddish or Whitish Patches: Unusual areas of white or red in the mouth.
  • Persistent Sores: A sore that doesn’t heal and bleeds easily.
  • Lumps or Thickening: Any bump or thickening in the mouth tissue.
  • Chronic Sore Throat: Ongoing throat discomfort without an apparent cause.
  • Difficulty Chewing or Swallowing: Persistent problems with normal oral functions.
Although not everyone who has one of these warning signs will turn out to be diagnosed with oral cancer, if you are displaying any of these symptoms or have other concerns, it is vital to be seen by a medical or dental professional for further evaluation. This is especially important if you have any known risk factors.

Risk Factors for Oral Cancer

There are a number of known factors that increase the likelihood of a person developing oral cancer. There are two categories of risk factors: modifiable (things an individual can change to reduce their risk) and non-modifiable (things that cannot be changed).

Modifiable Risk Factors

  • Tobacco Use: Smoking or using smokeless tobacco products such as chewing tobacco.
  • Excessive Alcohol Consumption: Heavy alcohol use is a major risk factor; this risk is increased when combined with tobacco use.
  • Sun Exposure: Prolonged exposure to the sun can lead to lip cancer.
  • Chronic Mouth Irritation: Repeated or constant oral irritation and inflammation, often linked with ill-fitting dentures.

Non-Modifiable Risk Factors

  • Age: Individuals over 40 are at higher risk.
  • Family History: Genetics can play a role in cancer susceptibility.
  • Human papillomavirus (HPV): HPV infection increases the risk of developing oropharyngeal cancer.

Prevention and Early Detection Methods

Self-Examinations

Performing regular oral self-examination can help detect early changes in your mouth. Inspect your lips, gums, tongue, and the inside of your cheeks and mouth for any swelling, sores, or discoloration that could indicate a potential issue. Look for asymmetry, bumps, and any persistent lesions that do not heal.
 
If any warning signs or symptoms are noted, schedule an appointment with Dr. Clay Van Leeuwen and his team for further evaluation.

Regular Dental Exams

Routine dental check-ups are vital because dentists can often identify early signs of cancer during examinations, advising appropriate referrals for further evaluation if necessary.

Avoid Tobacco and Alcohol

Avoid all tobacco products. This includes both smoking as well as oral products such as chewing tobacco. If you currently use tobacco, talk to your doctor about ways to help you quit.
Alcohol intake should also be limited. The American Cancer Society recommends no more than 1 drink per day for women or 2 drinks per day for men. Research has shown that using both alcohol and tobacco together increases risk so it is especially important to cut out alcohol use if you do smoke.

Use an SPF Lip Balm

The skin on your lips is thinner and more sensitive than that on the rest of your face, making it particularly vulnerable to harmful UV rays. Just as you would apply sunscreen to your skin before stepping out into the sun, it is equally important to shield your lips. Look for a lip balm with a minimum SPF of 15.

Address Denture Concerns

Chronic irritation and inflammation of the mouth can increase your risk of oral cancer. Poorly fitting dentures can contribute to this irritation. Schedule an appointment with your dentist if you have concerns regarding the fit of your dentures.

Eat a Healthy Diet

Eat a healthy, balanced diet that includes fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. It is also important to maintain a healthy weight.

Your Health, Our Priority. Schedule an Appointment With Our Team Today!

Early detection saves lives. If you have any concerns, don’t wait—schedule an oral cancer assessment with Dr. Clay Van Leeuwen at Alaska Oral & Facial today. Contact us at 907-452-4101 or visit our website to book an appointment.