Oral Cancer

Oral cancer refers to cancer that develops in any part of the mouth – including the lips, gums, tongue, inner cheeks, and the roof or floor of the mouth.

Oral cancer is a serious health concern, often linked to tobacco use, alcohol consumption, and sun exposure. Cancer of the lip, particularly the lower lip, is linked to excessive sun exposure. Outdoor workers and individuals in Florida’s sunny climate are especially at risk.

Síntomas

Oral cancer symptoms can often be mistaken for other common issues. It is important to consult a health care provider if you notice:

• A sore in the mouth that doesn’t heal
• A lump on the tongue or gums
• White or red patch on the gums, tongue or lining of the mouth
• Jaw pain or stiffness
• Loose teeth
• Ear pain
• Difficulty swallowing
• Problems with dentures not fitting or becoming uncomfortable

Risk Factors

Factors that increase the risk of oral cancer include:

• Poor oral hygiene
• Smoking or using other tobacco products, such as chewing tobacco or “dip”
• Excessive alcohol consumption
• Excessive sun exposure to the lips
• A weakened immune system
• Exposure to human papillomavirus (HPV)

Prevención

To help prevent oral cancer, consider the following:

• Don’t smoke or if you do, quit
• Limit or avoid alcohol consumption
• Use a lip balm that contains a broad-spectrum SPF of 30 or higher
• Maintain good oral hygiene and see a dentist regularly
• Schedule regular medical checkups with both your general health care provider and dermatologist
• Maintain a healthy weight through a diet rich in vegetables, fruits, and whole grain

Screening

Although there are no formal national guidelines for oral cancer screening intervals, individuals at higher risk, should receive oral cancer exams as part of their regular dental checkups.

Dentists may use adjunctive tools such as oral cancer screening dyes or fluorescent lights to aid visual inspection, but these do not replace a thorough clinical examination.

Approximately 54,000 Americans are diagnosed with oral cancer or oropharyngeal cancer each year with a 5-year survival rate around 66%