Understanding Oral Cancer: Early Detection Saves Lives

Oral cancer affects various parts of the mouth, including lips, tongue, gums, inner cheeks, and the floor of the mouth. Early detection is vital because it often begins without pain or obvious symptoms, making regular dental visits—at least twice a year—essential.

Oral cancer occurs when abnormal cells grow uncontrollably in the mouth’s soft tissues. Common types include lip cancer (linked to sun exposure and tobacco), tongue cancer (persistent ulcers or growths), inner cheek cancer (thickened patches or sores), gum cancer, and cancer under the tongue.

Early signs can be subtle, including sores that don’t heal in two weeks, white or red patches, lumps, pain when chewing, bad breath, numbness, loose teeth without gum disease, or voice changes. If these appear, consult a dentist or specialist promptly.

Risk factors include tobacco use, heavy alcohol consumption, prolonged sun exposure, HPV infection, weakened immunity, poor oral hygiene, and chronic irritation.

Oral cancer progresses through stages from localized abnormal cells to spread in lymph nodes or distant tissues. Regular dental check-ups often catch early warning signs, improving survival chances.

Prevention involves quitting tobacco, reducing alcohol, protecting lips from sun, maintaining oral hygiene, eating a healthy diet, and HPV vaccination.

Awareness and vigilance can make all the difference—don’t ignore persistent oral changes. Early action saves lives.