Many Americans know at least one person who has been affected by cancer. It is understandable that you may worry about cancer if you find sores in your mouth. Before you start to worry, you need to know which mouth sores are normal and which mouth sores might require a dental visit. Here are some tips for you to think about.
Oral Cancer
Oral cancer affects about 54,000 people each year. There are specific risk factors for oral cancer. People over 60 have a higher risk of oral cancer. Also, if you are a smoker or you were a smoker previously, you are at a higher risk as well. Heavy drinkers are also at a greater risk of being diagnosed with oral cancer. If you have had HPV (human papilloma virus) in the past, you are at a greater risk for oral cancer.
What Are Some Warning Signs for Oral Cancer?
There are several warning signs for oral cancer. First, you might notice you have a sore on your mouth or on one of your lips that won't heal. You might also notice patches of red or white inside your mouth that don't go away. You may notice a bump or a lump, and you might experience pain around a tooth, gums, cheeks, or tongue when you chew or swallow.
How Can I Tell What Might Be Oral Cancer?
If you are at all concerned about your oral health, make an appointment to visit the dentist. There are simple exams dentists perform to detect oral cancer. For example, the dentist may have you swish a blue-colored fluid in your mouth, and then check your mouth using a flashlight. Oral cancer shows up as white during this dental test. If your dentist does suspect cancer, remember that the earlier cancer is caught, the more likely you are to have a good outcome.
About Us • Oral Surgeon Clackamas, OR • Clackamas Implant & Oral Surgery Center Clackamas Implant & Oral Surgery Center is the office of Brett M. Sullivan, DMD, a Board-Certified Oral & Maxillofacial Surgeon. Click to learn more about us! Clackamas Implant & Oral Surgery Center - Brett Sullivan, DMD, MD, 11211 SE Sunnyside Road, Clackamas, OR 97015 \ (503) 652-8080 \ clackamasoralsurgery.com \ 10/8/2024 \ Related Phrases: about us,oral surgeon clackamas,clackamas oral surgeon
Many Americans know at least one person who has been affected by cancer. It is understandable that you may worry about cancer if you find sores in your mouth. Before you start to worry, you need to know which mouth sores are normal and which mouth sores might require a dental visit. Here are some tips for you to think about.