Mouth cancer can affect the lips, tongue, cheeks, gums, floor of the mouth and throat. It is less common than many other cancers, but it is serious, and outcomes are much better when it is found early.
Signs to look out for
See a dentist or doctor if you notice any of the following that don’t heal within three weeks:
- A mouth ulcer or sore
- A red or white patch inside the mouth
- A lump or thickening in the mouth, lip or neck
- Unexplained bleeding or numbness
- Pain or difficulty swallowing or chewing
- A loose tooth with no obvious cause
- A persistent hoarse voice
Risk factors
- Smoking and other tobacco use, including chewing tobacco and betel nut
- Heavy alcohol use, especially combined with smoking
- HPV infection
- Excessive sun exposure to the lips
- A history of mouth cancer
Screening at your check-up
A screening is part of every routine check-up. Your dentist looks at and feels the soft tissues of your mouth and neck. It is quick and painless. Most changes found are harmless, but anything unusual can be monitored or referred for further tests.
Reduce your risk
Stop smoking, limit alcohol, use lip balm with sunscreen outdoors, and keep up regular check-ups.
If you have a sore or patch that hasn’t healed, book an appointment with Dr H.B Mohamed in Lenasia. Call 011 852 7866.