Routine dental check-ups, including teeth cleaning and other oral care treatments, are vital for maintaining excellent oral health and can help prevent oral cancer and other dental conditions. Oral cancer is a fatal disease that strikes thousands of individuals worldwide. Each year, an estimated 5,300 Canadians are diagnosed with oral cancer, with 3,700 being males and 1,600 being women, according to the Canadian Cancer Statistics Report. As to the Canadian Dental Association, the general incidence of oral cancer in Canada is around 12 per 100,000 males per year and 5 per 100,000 women. In 2003, around 3,100 new instances of oral cancer were discovered in Canada, with approximately 1,090 fatalities due to the disease.
That is why it is vital to be aware of the risk factors and symptoms of oral cancer and adopt preventative measures to guarantee early detection. One effective way to detect oral cancer early is by regularly visiting a trusted family dentist. Let’s explore the role of dental visits in oral cancer detection and prevention and discuss what causes oral cancer, the risk factors, prevention strategies, and many more!
What Is Oral Cancer?
Oral cancer, also known as mouth cancer, can occur anywhere in the mouth, such as the lips, gums, tongue, cheeks, roof or floor of the mouth, and back of the throat. It happens when cells in the mouth mutate and expand. Here are the following most prevalent oral cancer symptoms:
- Sores or ulcers in the mouth that do not heal
- Persistent pain or discomfort in the mouth
- Difficulty chewing or swallowing
- Swelling or lumps in the mouth
- Red or white spots on the gums, tongue, or mouth lining
You should seek a doctor immediately if you suffer any of these symptoms or persist for over a few weeks. Early identification of oral cancer is critical for enhancing options for treatment and increasing the likelihood of a positive outcome.
Different Types of Oral Cancer
There are several different types of oral cancer, including:
- Squamous cell carcinoma: The most common kind of oral cancer, accounting for more than 90% of all occurrences.
- Verrucous carcinoma: A slow-growing kind of oral cancer that is commonly detected in smokers’ mouths.
- Minor salivary gland carcinomas: Oral cancer in the small salivary glands situated throughout the mouth and throat.
Oral Cancer Causes & Risk Factors
Several oral cancer risk factors include the following:
- Age: Oral cancer is most common in people over 50.
- Gender: This illness affects men twice as often as women.
- Smoking: Tobacco use, including cigarettes, cigars, and smokeless tobacco, is a significant risk factor for oral cancer.
- Alcohol consumption: Excessive alcohol use can raise the chance of getting oral cancer, especially when paired with cigarette use.
- HPV infection: Certain strains of HPV, particularly HPV-16, and HPV-18, have been linked to an increased risk of oral cancer.
The specific etiology of oral cancer is unknown. However, genetic abnormalities that cause cells in the mouth to multiply uncontrollably are thought to be the cause. Other oral cancer causes include poor dental hygiene, sun exposure, and a diet deficient in fruits and vegetables.
Significance of Regular Dental Check-ups for Oral Cancer Prevention
With regular dental appointments, it is possible to detect oral cancer early and prevent it from progressing. During a typical dental check-up, your dentist will look for indications of oral cancer in your mouth and throat. This test normally comprises the following components:
- A visual examination of the mouth, lips, and tongue to check for any abnormalities
- A physical examination of the head and neck to look for tumours or other cancerous indications
- An oral cancer screening that employs modern technologies such as fluorescence technology or a VELscope to detect abnormalities that may not be evident to the naked eye
How Dentists Can Detect Early Signs of Oral Cancer
Dentists are frequently the first healthcare providers to notice early symptoms of oral cancer because they are trained to identify abnormalities in the mouth that may suggest malignancy.
Early detection of oral cancer can also reduce the financial and emotional burden on patients and healthcare providers. Treatment for advanced-stage oral cancer can be costly and time-consuming and significantly impact the quality of life.
Delayed or missed oral cancer diagnoses can result in more aggressive treatment, impacting the patient’s quality of life. In addition, oral cancer that is not detected in the early stages can spread to other parts of the body, reducing treatment options and decreasing the survival rate.
Treatments for Oral Cancer
Oral cancer requires prompt and effective treatment. Options include surgery, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy. Depending on the stage, size, and location of the cancer, a combination of oral cancer treatments may be recommended. Other options include targeted therapy, immunotherapy, or palliative care. Surgery is often the first choice, but the treatment plan will vary based on the case.
Oral Cancer Prevention Strategies
Preventing oral cancer means reducing risk factors and adopting healthy habits. Here are some tips to help prevent oral cancer:
- Avoid tobacco use, including smoking and chewing tobacco.
- Limit alcohol consumption or avoid it altogether.
- Maintain proper oral hygiene, like brushing and flossing your teeth regularly.
- Have a nutritious, well-balanced diet rich in fruits and vegetables.
- Avoid lengthy sun exposure on your lips.
- Visit your professional dentist regularly for oral cancer screenings and early detection.
- Get vaccinated against HPV.
Protect Your Oral Health With Regular Dental Visits at Springdale Dental
Regular dental appointments are critical for maintaining oral health and avoiding cancer-related diseases or other dental problems. It is vital that you visit a trusted dental clinic in Brampton. Our experienced dentist here at Springdale Dental provides comprehensive oral care services, including cleanings, exams, and treatments, to help you achieve optimal oral health. Contact us today at (905) 458-1212 to schedule your next appointment and take the first step towards a healthier smile!
