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What is Oral Cancer?

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Cancer. We’re sure you’ve heard of this unfortunate six-letter word. Cancer is a disease wherein your body creates, grows, and nourishes abnormal cells. These abnormal cells will invade and destroy your normal cells. One of the top forms of cancer in America is oral cancer. It starts with a sore in your mouth, but unlike other mouth sores, this one doesn’t go away. If oral cancer isn’t identified and treated early, the cancer cells can metastasize to other parts of your body. This can be caught early through regular Oak Park family dentistry appointments.

Dental checkups will allow your dentist to study and monitor your mouth for any signs of abnormalities.

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Important Facts About Oral Cancer

What Are the Symptoms of Oral Cancer?

The common symptoms of oral cancer include bumps or lumps in your mouth, thickenings and swellings, and rough spots on your gums or lips. It’s also common to find speckled, red, or whitish patches in your mouth.

If there is unexplained bleeding, numbness, or tenderness, you’re encouraged to see a dentist. Oral cancer is also manifested by persistent and bleeding sores that last for more than two weeks.

Other symptoms of oral cancer include dramatic weight loss, ear pain, chronic sore throat, and difficulty swallowing or chewing. When these symptoms become noticeable, don’t ignore them. We understand that you may be scared, but seeking treatment early can make all the difference.

Who Can Get Oral Cancer?

Studies done by the American Cancer Society reveal that men are more prone to develop oral cancer than women. Men who are over 50 years old are considered the greatest risk. According to surveys made in 2019, around 50 thousand people in America were diagnosed with oral cancer.

What are the risk factors for oral cancer? Smokers are susceptible to oral cancer. In fact, if you are a chronic smoker, you are six times more likely to get cancer compared to those who don’t smoke. Smokeless tobacco users are also 50 times more likely to develop cancer in the lips, gums, and cheeks. A family history of oral cancer also puts you at risk.

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Do You Need Oak Park Family Dentistry?

One way of preventing oral cancer is to regularly see your dentist for a checkup. These oral exams and oral cancer screenings will let you know whether or not you have it. These checkups are also an opportunity for you to learn about your oral health and what you can do to improve it.

You can help prevent oral cancer if you avoid smoking, eat a well-balanced and healthy diet, and visit your dentist yearly. At One Fine Smile, we strive to make you feel comfortable and relaxed during your visit to our clinic.

We offer top-quality dental services at a price you can afford. We can guarantee that our staff is trained, skilled, and knowledgeable in diagnosing disease conditions. If you are looking to get out in front of cancer before it worsens, give us a call today to schedule an appointment with us.