Oral Cancer Dentist: Primary Dental Care

Oral cancer is a type of cancer that involves the mouth and the back of the throat, which is the pharynx. An oral cancer dentist at Primary Dental Care may recognize signs of this dangerous disease during an exam specifically designed to diagnosis this disease. There are various risk factors involved in oral cancer and signs of which one should be aware when considering if you may be a victim of this disease.

Risk Factors for Oral Cancer

In speaking with an oral cancer dentist at Primary Dental Care, you’ll find that the most common risk factors for oral cancer are tobacco and alcohol use. Most oral cancer cases are connected to one or the other of these activities, and the combined use of tobacco products and alcohol greatly raises the risk of developing oral cancer. Other factors in the development of this disease include HPV, as infection with the sexually transmitted human papillomavirus (specifically the HPV 16 type) is linked to certain types of oral cancer. Cancer of the lip can be caused by overexposure to the sun, while low intake of fruits and vegetables may contribute to the overall risk of developing oral cancer.

Oral Cancer Signs

A diagnosis of this disease can be competently made by a Primary Dental Care oral cancer dentist, who will examine the face, mouth, tongue, lips, and back of your throat for signs of cancer. Below are common conditions that may indicate you have oral cancer. If you exhibit any of the signs discussed below, and if they persist for two weeks or more, then make an appointment to see a dentist. Signs of oral cancer include irritations of the throat or mouth that won’t go away, such as a sore, irritation, lump, or thick patch in the mouth, throat or on the lip, or a white or red patch in the mouth. Also, many people complain about feeling as if they have something caught in their throat. Other signs of oral cancer include difficulty in performing various movements associated with the mouth region, such as trouble in moving the tongue or jaw and/or difficulty swallowing or chewing. You should be concerned about oral cancer if you have numbness in the mouth or tongue or swelling of the jaw. Also, pain in one ear may be a sign of the disease. One thing to realize is that if you do have any of these symptoms, it does not mean that you have oral cancer. There are many other conditions that can cause the problems described above.

Dealing with Oral Cancer

Diagnosing oral cancer early is important, as the sooner you receive treatment the better. Treatment may include surgery, radiation therapy, and reconstructive surgery. Depending on the area affected, you may eventually be fitted for oral cancer dentures. Utilizing oral cancer dentures can help patients return to normal eating activities.

If Concerned Contact Us

If you are concerned about oral cancer, please contact Primary Dental Care, and we will arrange an appointment with an oral cancer dentist as soon as possible. A dentist trained in recognizing the symptoms of oral cancer can examine you for signs of the disease and make a thorough assessment of your situation. For more information or to make an appointment for an oral cancer screening call Primary Dental Care at 714-537-5700.