WHAT IS ORAL CANCER? WHAT ARE THE SYMPTOMS OF ORAL CANCER?

When we say oral cancers, we think of cancers seen both in the oral cavity and in the oropharynx region located at the back of the mouth.

These cancers can be located in the tongue, teeth, gums, bones, behind the throat and tongue, which we call the oropharynx, as well as on the lips.

Who is the most common oral  cancer?

The majority of oral cancers occur over the age of 45 and the probability of occurrence in men is 2 times higher than in women.

What are the symptoms of Oral Cancers?

Sometimes it does not give any symptoms, sometimes it shows symptoms in the form of non-healing wounds and bleeding in the mouth.

Particular attention should be paid to the symptoms below:

  • Indescribable pain in the mouth
  • Repetitive bleeding and pain in the mouth or throat
  • Irritated or tender raised areas in the mouth that can be felt with the tongue
  • Loss of sensation in mouth or tongue, gums, numbness
  • When recurring white or red spots appear in the mouth

They should be brought to the attention of doctor or dentists as they can be approved as precursor cancer conditions.

What can be done to reduce the risks of oral cancer?

  • Do not use tobacco products such as cigarettes, pipes, do not chew tobacco.
  • Oral cancer risk has increased 15 times in people who use both alcohol and tobacco products compared to those who do not use alcohol and tobacco products.
  • Eat a diet rich in fruits and vegetables.

What happens if mouth cancers are not treated?

  • If oral cancers are not diagnosed at an early stage and treatment is not provided, they may spread and cause continuous pain, loss of function, and facial and mouth deformities that cannot be corrected after treatment.
  • It can spread from the mouth to the area around the throat and then to the lymph nodes and the whole body, causing death.
  • Visiting the dentist regularly is also important for early detection of oral cancers.

Which methods are used in the treatment of oral cancers?

 Treatment generally consists of removing all cancerous tissues by surgical intervention, radiotherapy (using radiation to destroy cancer cells), chemotherapy (using cancer-fighting drugs) or using these methods together.

As with all types of cancer, early diagnosis is very important in oral cancers.

Dentist controls are very important during the year and should be visited regularly.