Oral Cancer Detection

Never assume that you will see or feel oral cancer! Visit your dental hygienist or dentist regularly and make sure that you let them know you are a tobacco user. They are trained to detect signs and symptoms of oral cancer and know how to perform a thorough cancer screening.

Who is at risk for Oral Cancer?

Those who smoke or chew tobacco, especially those who drink a lot of alcohol
Heavy alcohol drinkers, especially if you use snuff or chewing tobacco
Those who chew betel nut
Those with unprotected sun exposure to the lips
Those with the HPV (Human Papilloma Virus)
Some people develop it without any of the above!

Signs and Symptoms:

Unusual patches in the mouth that do not heal (these may be painless and hidden)
Bleeding from the mouth and throat that is repeated
Swelling or lumps in the mouth, throat, neck (may be painless)
Loose teeth and bleeding gums
Difficulty swallowing

* If you have any sore or lesion that does not heal in 2 weeks, you should seek advice from your oral health professionals or physician.

Your dentist may suggest a biopsy where a small piece of the tissue is taken and looked at under a microscope. Diagnosing oral cancer sometimes requires many tests and examinations that will be explained to you by your doctor.

Remember, early detection can save your life!

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