Oral Cancer

Early detection is the key to successful treatment of oral cancers, so we are the first line of defense. Ask us about oral cancer screening at your next regular visit.

 

What is oral cancer?

Oral cancer is a common cancer which has a high mortality rate if it is not caught in the early stages. Early detection is key, so regular dental visits are very important. It affects all parts of the mouth, tongue and lips.

 

What are the signs of oral cancer?

The following are signs of oral cancer. Make an appointment immediately with our Brandywine Office, Hockessin Office, Middletown Office, Newark Office, Wilmington Office, or Millsboro Office for a thorough examination if you suspect a problem:

Small, white or red spot or sore anywhere in the mouth, including the tongue, lip, gum tissue, cheek lining, the hard or soft palate or other mouth area.

Often pale, but can be dark or discolored

A deep, hard edged crack

Often initially painless

Could eventually cause a burning sensation or pain

A sore or lesion that bleeds easily or does not heal in two weeks

Any part of the mouth that changes in color

A lump, thickening, rough spot, crust or small eroded area

Pain, tenderness, or numbness anywhere in the mouth or on the lips or tongue

Difficulty chewing, swallowing, speaking or moving the jaw or tongue

A change in the way the teeth fit together or the fit of your dentures

A sore throat or a feeling like something is stuck in the throat

How can Dental Associates of Delaware help?

Our team at Dental Associates of Delaware is the first line of defense because regular dental visits are an opportunity to thoroughly examine your mouth. Not only are regular dental visits part of the good oral hygiene that reduces the risk of oral cancers, but dentists are often the ones who detect oral cancers first. Ask your dentist in our Brandywine Office, Hockessin Office, Middletown Office, Newark Office, Wilmington Office, or Millsboro Office to discuss oral cancer screening with you at your next visit.

 

What can I do to reduce the risk of oral cancer?

Tobacco use is, by far, the biggest cause of oral cancers. All the following may help reduce your likelihood of oral cancers:

Quitting or reducing smoking and smokeless tobacco use

Quitting or reducing alcohol consumption

Practicing good oral hygiene

Yearly cancer screenings for soft tissue in mouth