One of the most serious oral conditions that can occur is oral cancer. The survival rate for oral cancer if diagnosed early is quite high but it can be fatal in cases where it is not spotted soon enough and allowed to develop. The dentist plays a crucial part in spotting the first signs and symptoms of oral cancer, which include small white and red patches on the soft tissue that don’t go away naturally.
Oral cancer is twice as likely to affect men than women and certain other factors such as smoking and drinking can also increase the chances of contracting the disease. However, despite certain factors making oral cancer more likely it must be remembered that nearly a quarter of all cases affect people with none of the high risk factors.
Amongst the other symptoms of oral cancer are small swellings like little bumps or rusty spots on the inside of the mouth. Any unexplained bleeding in the mouth or sudden weight loss could also be signs of oral cancer so they are always worth having examined at a City of Leeds dentist. Any difficulty experienced when eating or drinking due to pain or soreness can also be indicative of the early signs of oral cancer.
To prevent oral cancer, try and eat a healthy and balanced diet and avoid dangerous substances like alcohol and tobacco. Examine your mouth once a month both in a mirror and with your finger to feel for any bumps or patches. And always remember to see your dentist at least once every six months.
Tags: bleeding in the mouth, oral cancers, small swellings, sudden weight loss
