Frequency and severity of oral cancers
The majority of oral cancers occur over the age of 45, and the likelihood of males occurring in women is twice as high as women. The regions where oral cancers occur are frequently; tongue, mouth base, soft palate areas near the root of the tongue, lips and gums. If the oral cancers are not diagnosed and treated early, they can spread and cause continuous pain, loss of function, facial and mouth deformities which cannot be corrected after the treatment, and even death. Regular visits to the dentist are important for the early detection of oral cancers.
What are the causes of oral cancers?
The exact cause of oral cancer is not known exactly. However, factors such as tobacco products, carcinogens in alcohol and certain foods, and exposure to excessive sunlight have been found to increase the risk of oral cancer. Genetic susceptibility is also one of the risk factors for oral cancers.
Possible symptoms of oral cancers
White or red areas inside or around the mouth Sensitive, irritated, bulging or thickened areas in the mouth Repetitive bleedings in the mouth or throat Choking and swallowing difficulty in the mouth or in the throat Chewing and swallowing Difficulty in tongue and jaw movements Loss of sensation in tongue or other parts of the mouth, drowsiness Swelling of the lower or upper jaw, and consequently impaired existing prosthesis compliance. Oral cancer lesions are painless at the onset of the disease. It may be difficult for a person to notice his or her mouth cancer. For this reason, regular dentists are extremely important.
To reduce the risk of oral cancer:
· Do not use tobacco products such as cigarettes, pipes, do not chew tobacco.
· If you use alcohol, do not overdo it.
· The risk of oral cancer in people using both alcohol and tobacco products has increased 15-fold compared to those who do not use alcohol and tobacco products.
· Eat on a diet rich in fruits and vegetables (research suggests that this kind of diet can reduce the risk of oral cancer).
· Do not neglect to go to the dentist regularly.