Back to Dental Procedures
Oral Cancer
Oral cancer (a.k.a. mouth cancer) is not a topic to take lightly.
Fortunately, however, it's now easier than ever to detect, and with early
detection, comes a greater chance of survival.
Where is it located?
Usually starting as a white or red spot or sore anywhere in the
mouth, oral cancer can affect any portion of the oral cavity, including the
lips, gum tissue, cheek lining, tongue, and the hard or soft palate.
Detection
An oral cancer screening should be a part of any routine dental
exam. In about 10 percent of patients, dentists may notice flat and painless
white or red spots. Although most of these are harmless, some are not. The
dentist may choose to treat the sore and ask the patient to return for a follow
up, or he or she may perform a brush biopsy, which is usually painless, to
determine if dangerous cells are present.
Symptoms
In looking for mouth cancer, dentists check for many of the following symptoms, which you should also look for to increase your chances of early detection:
- Color changes in tissues
- Lumps, thickenings, rough spots, or small eroded areas
- Mouth sores that bleed easily and do not heal
- Pain, tenderness, or numbness anywhere in the mouth or on the lips
- Difficulty chewing, swallowing, speaking, or moving the jaw or tongue
- Changes in the voice
- Changes in the way your teeth fit together
How can I reduce the cost of dental treatment?
Without a dental plan, dental treatment can cost
hundreds and even thousands of dollars. Proper dental care is vital, however,
and can even affect your medical health. It should not be ignored. If you
believe you will soon need a dental procedure, you may want to consider a
dental plan to help reduce your costs.
