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| Oral Cancer |
Oral cancer is the abnormal growth of cancerous cells inside the mouth. This commonly affects the tongue, gums, palate or roof of the mouth, and the inside of the cheeks. The problem is due to irritation of the mucous membranes lining the oral mucosa as a result of smoking and heavy drinking of alcohol. The condition sometimes start as a small ulcer.
A high percentage of cases result from smoking and chewing tobacco. Aside from heavy alcohol drinking, other causes include use of loosefitting dentures, poor oral hygiene, biting of lips and inner linings of the mouth, and exposure to ultraviolet light. All of these factors contribute to the irritation of tissues causing the damage of cells which then function abnormally producing cancer cells.
Regular dental check up is very important. A small lump or mass inside the mouth must be seen at once by your physician before it starts to grow and affect surrounding structures. A cancerous lump is usually painless initially and may become painful when the problem is advanced. The condition often leads to difficulty chewing and swallowing, pain around the teeth, jaw, or anywhere inside the mouth, sometimes with numbness of the tongue.
A sore in the mouth that does not heal must be examined immediately. Early conditions can be treated with surgical excision. If there is already spread to adjoining structures and the lump is bigger then radiation therapy and chemotherapy is given.
To decrease the risk of acquiring the condition strictly avoid use of tobacco products, drink alcohol moderately, and eat plenty of fruits and vegetables. |
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