Oral cancer will affect more than 30,000 Americans this year, making it the sixth most common cancer for males — killing more people each year than melanoma or cervical cancer.
“Oral cancer usually begins as a small red or white spot that looks like an irritation, or an ulcer,” said Dr. Cheryl Watson-Lowry, a general dentist in Chicago and spokesperson for the Chicago Dental Society. “The most common site is on the side of the tongue. The lesion oftentimes is not painful or noticeable until it becomes infected or increases in size.”
Like many cancers, early detection can improve the chances of successful treatment. As part of a regular oral examination your dentist can check your oral tissues for signs of cancerous or precancerous lesions. “Tobacco use (in any form) and alcohol consumption are the two most important risk factors for developing oral cancer,” warns Dr. Watson-Lowry. “If you are a male who uses tobacco and drinks alcohol, it is essential that you examine your mouth daily for any abnormalities and that you receive an oral cancer screening each time you visit your dentist.” Dr. Watson-Lowry also recommends avoiding excessive use of alcohol-containing mouth rinses.
Oral cancer is detected via a biopsy that includes removing all or part of the growth. The sample is sent to a lab where the cells are examined. If the growth is malignant, oral cancer may be treated with surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy or a combination of the aforementioned.
“Adults may be able to reduce the potential for oral cancer by practicing good oral hygiene, by having your dentist or physician check your mouth regularly for skin lesions (sores) and abrasions and by adopting healthful lifestyle — one that does not include tobacco use and limits alcohol consumption,” said Dr. Watson-Lowry.
“Knowing the risk factors and taking steps to prevent precancerous lesions from developing can go a long way toward limiting the influence oral cancer can have on your life,” said Dr. Watson-Lowry. “Visiting your dentist regularly is a crucial step to maintaining your oral health.”
Contact the Chicago Dental Society at www.chicagodentalsociety.org for more information regarding oral cancer and other oral health issues.
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