Written with content from GPT-4
Fact Checked & Edited by: Dr. Levy Do

This year alone, nearly 54,000 people in the USA will be diagnosed with oral and oropharyngeal cancer and nearly 11,000 will die. (Source: Cancer.org)

Oral cancer is a serious disease that affects thousands of people every year. It can develop in any part of the mouth, such as the lips, tongue, gums, cheeks, or throat. Oral cancer can cause pain, difficulty swallowing, changes in speech, and disfigurement. It can also spread to other parts of the body and be life-threatening. The good news is that oral cancer can be prevented and treated if detected early. That's why April is Oral Cancer Awareness Month, a time to raise awareness of this disease and encourage people to get screened regularly.

Here are some facts and tips to help you understand oral cancer and protect yourself and your loved ones. What are the risk factors for oral cancer? Anyone can get oral cancer, but some factors can increase your risk. These include:

• Tobacco use of any kind, including cigarettes, cigars, pipes, chewing tobacco, and snuff

• Heavy alcohol use

• Excessive sun exposure to your lips

• A sexually transmitted virus called human papillomavirus (HPV), which is also linked to cervical cancer

• A family history of oral cancer

• A history of other head and neck cancers

• A weakened immune system

What are the symptoms of oral cancer? Oral cancer can have different signs and symptoms depending on where it develops and how advanced it is. Some common ones are:

• A sore or ulcer in the mouth that doesn't heal

• A white or red patch on the inside of the mouth

• A lump or growth in the mouth or on the lips

• Loose teeth or dentures that don't fit well

• Bleeding or pain in the mouth

• Difficulty chewing, swallowing, or speaking

• Numbness or tingling in the mouth or lips

• A change in voice or hoarseness

• Swelling in the jaw or neck

• Ear pain or hearing loss

If you notice any of these symptoms, don't ignore them or hope they will go away. See your doctor or dentist as soon as possible for a thorough examination. How can oral cancer be detected early? The best way to detect oral cancer early is to have regular oral cancer screenings by a health professional. This can be done as part of your routine dental check-up or by a doctor who specializes in head and neck cancers. An oral cancer screening involves looking at and feeling your mouth for any abnormal changes. Sometimes, a special light or dye may be used to highlight suspicious areas. At Pine Cove Dental, we’re passionate about your health and have incorporated the Velscope, a specialized detection tool that lights up abnormal cells, in addition to a regular visual exam of the soft and hard tissue of the mouth. The Velscope is non-invasive, does not require a bad-tasting dye, and literally only adds a minute to the regular exam! If you’re a patient here, you might have had one during a regular exam. Because oral cancer is so devastating and because we believe early detection is so important, your first Enhanced oral cancer screening here is completely complimentary. There is no reason not to get screened. (Read more about Velscope)

You can also do a self-exam at home by using a mirror and a bright light to check your mouth for any unusual changes. If you find anything that concerns you, contact your doctor or dentist right away.

How can oral cancer be prevented? The best way to prevent oral cancer is to avoid or limit the risk factors that can cause it. Here are some tips to help you lower your risk:

• Quit smoking or using any other tobacco products. If you need help quitting, talk to your doctor about nicotine replacement therapy, medication, counseling, or other options.

• Drink alcohol in moderation or not at all. The more you drink, the higher your risk of oral cancer.

• Protect your lips from sun damage by using a lip balm with SPF and wearing a hat or scarf when outdoors.

• Get vaccinated against HPV if you are eligible. The HPV vaccine can prevent infection by certain strains of the virus that can cause oral cancer.

• Eat a healthy diet rich in fruits and vegetables. These foods contain antioxidants and vitamins that can help prevent cell damage and inflammation.

• Maintain good oral hygiene by brushing your teeth twice a day, flossing daily, and visiting your dentist regularly. This can help prevent gum disease and infections that can increase your risk of oral cancer.

Be aware of any changes in your mouth and report them to your doctor or dentist promptly. Don't wait for symptoms to get worse before seeking help. Oral cancer awareness is important because it can save lives. By knowing the risk factors, symptoms, prevention methods, and screening options for oral cancer, you can take charge of your health and protect yourself and your loved ones from this disease. Remember: early detection is key!