Mouth Cancer Awareness: Symptoms, Risks, and Prevention
Mouth cancer, also called oral cancer, can affect various parts of the mouth, including the lips, tongue, inner cheeks, gums, and the lower part of the mouth. Early detection is critical because treatment is much more effective when the disease is caught in its initial stages.
Symptoms of Mouth Cancer:
In the early stages, mouth cancer often has no noticeable symptoms, making regular dental check-ups crucial. People who smoke or consume alcohol regularly are at higher risk and should have their mouths examined by a dentist at least twice a year. As the disease progresses, possible signs include:
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Persistent sores or ulcers that do not heal
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Red or white patches inside the mouth
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Unexplained bleeding or numbness
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Pain while chewing, swallowing, or speaking
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Loose teeth or difficulty moving the jaw
Dangers and Risks:
If left untreated, oral cancer can spread to other parts of the body, including the throat and lymph nodes. Early diagnosis dramatically improves survival rates and reduces the need for extensive surgery or other invasive treatments.
Stages of Mouth Cancer:
Oral cancer is classified into stages depending on the size of the tumor and whether it has spread:
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Stage I & II: Small, localized tumors
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Stage III: Larger tumors, possibly affecting nearby lymph nodes
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Stage IV: Advanced cancer spreading to other tissues or organs
Prevention and Specialist Care:
Regular dental check-ups, avoiding tobacco, limiting alcohol, and maintaining oral hygiene are key preventive measures. If you notice any symptoms, see a dentist immediately.
For expert evaluation, you can consult Mouth Cancer Specialist Dr. Sajjan Rajpurohit, who can guide diagnosis, treatment, and follow-up care to ensure the best outcomes.
Early detection saves lives—don’t ignore changes in your mouth.