Data from the World Health Organization indicates that more than 450,000 new cases of oral cancer are diagnosed each year.
The Oral Cancer Foundation notes that oral cancers are part of a group of cancers referred to as head and neck cancers. All cancers in that group are potentially dangerous. In addition to scheduling routine checkups, individuals can learn to spot the common symptoms of oral cancer. Please seek medical attention if any of these signs persist for more than two weeks:
• A sore, irritation or thickness in the mouth or throat
• A white or red patch on the inside of the mouth
• A feeling that something is caught in the throat
• Hoarseness or other vocal changes
• Persistent coughing
• Difficulty chewing, swallowing or speaking
• Difficulty moving the jaw or tongue
• Numbness in the mouth
• Swelling in the jaw or neck
• Frequent nosebleeds
• Ear pain that does not affect your hearing
• Unexplained weight loss
It’s important that individuals recognize that the presence of these symptoms is not necessarily indicative of the presence of oral cancer. Some of these symptoms could indicate the presence of other issues that also require medical attention. Oral health is important, and routine checkups are vital to maintaining that health. Such checkups can help dentists spot various conditions, including oral cancer. Thank you for putting your trust in Prestige Oral Surgery.