How Changes in Your Mouth's Texture Could Be Pointing to Oral Cancer
Posted on 10/1/2024 by Pacific Oral and Facial Surgery Center |
 Our mouths are amazing. They help us speak, eat, and taste the delicious foods we love. But sometimes, changes in our mouths can be a sign of something more serious, like oral cancer.
Oral cancer is a type of cancer that develops in the mouth, including the lips, tongue, gums, and the floor and roof of the mouth. It's important to catch oral cancer early, as it's much easier to treat when it's small and hasn't spread.
One of the first signs of oral cancer can be changes in the texture of your mouth. These changes can include:
| • |
Roughness or thickening of the lining of your mouth. This can feel like a sandpapery patch or a raised bump. |
| • |
White or red patches on your gums, tongue, or inside of your cheek. These patches may be painless or slightly sore. |
| • |
Unexplained bleeding from your mouth. This could be a sign of a more serious problem, especially if it doesn't stop after a few days. |
| • |
Numbness or tingling in your mouth. This could be a sign of nerve damage, which can be related to oral cancer. |
| • |
Difficulty swallowing or moving your tongue. This could be a sign that the cancer has spread to nearby tissues. |
If you notice any of these changes in your mouth, it's important to see a doctor or dentist right away. They will be able to examine your mouth and determine if these changes are caused by oral cancer or something else.
What causes these changes?
There are a few things that can cause changes in the texture of your mouth, including:
| • |
Tobacco use: Smoking and chewing tobacco are two of the biggest risk factors for oral cancer. Quitting tobacco is the best way to reduce your risk of developing this disease. |
| • |
Heavy alcohol use: Drinking too much alcohol can also increase your risk of oral cancer. If you drink alcohol, do so in moderation. |
| • |
Poor oral hygiene: Not brushing and flossing regularly can lead to a buildup of plaque and bacteria, which can irritate the lining of your mouth and increase your risk of oral cancer. |
| • |
Exposure to the sun: Sun exposure can cause lip cancer, so it's important to protect your lips with sunscreen. |
| • |
Human papillomavirus (HPV): Some strains of HPV can also increase your risk of oral cancer. Getting vaccinated against HPV can help to protect you from this disease. |
How to prevent oral cancer
There are a few things you can do to help prevent oral cancer, including:
| • |
See your dentist regularly for checkups and cleanings. This will help to keep your mouth healthy and allow your dentist to spot any early signs of oral cancer. |
| • |
Quit using tobacco. This is the single most important thing you can do to reduce your risk of oral cancer. |
| • |
Drink alcohol in moderation. If you drink alcohol, do so in moderation. |
| • |
Practice good oral hygiene. Brush your teeth twice a day and floss once a day. |
| • |
Protect your lips from the sun. Wear sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher on your lips, especially when you're outdoors. |
| • |
Get vaccinated against HPV. This can help to protect you from some strains of HPV that can increase your risk of oral cancer. |
What to do if you notice changes in your mouth
If you notice any changes in the texture of your mouth, it's important to see a doctor or dentist right away. They will be able to examine your mouth and determine if these changes are caused by oral cancer or something else.
Early detection of oral cancer is crucial for successful treatment. If you catch oral cancer early, the chances of successful treatment are much higher.
The Importance of Oral Care
Taking care of your oral health is important for your overall health. Regular dental checkups and cleanings can help to prevent oral cancer and other oral health problems. If you have any concerns about your oral health, please talk to your dentist.
Restoration Dentistry
If you have already been diagnosed with oral cancer, restoration dentistry can help to restore your mouth to its normal function and appearance. Restoration dentistry includes a variety of procedures, such as dental implants, dentures, and crowns.
Talk to your dentist about your options for restoration dentistry. They will be able to help you choose the best treatment plan for your needs.
|
|
Livermore: 925-290-7727
