April is Oral Cancer Awareness Month

Three Australians every day are diagnosed with oral cancer, and unfortunately, oral cancer is typically detected only once it’s in its advanced stage when the 5-year survival rate may be as low as 5%.

This is why we cannot stress enough the importance of regular six-monthly dental appointments as dentists are generally the first person to pick up on oral cancer.

Dentists don’t only check the health of your teeth and gums, they also check for other issues around your mouth and throat such as oral cancer and they should even check your glands in your neck.

What are the symptoms of oral cancer?

• Red or white patches
• Sore, irritation or lump inside the mouth that does not heal
• Chronic blood blister or ulcer inside the mouth
• Numbness in the tongue or other areas of your mouth
• Chewing and swallowing difficulties
• Swollen glands
• Speaking difficulties
• Jaw swelling

What causes oral cancer?

There are many factors that cause oral cancer that we cannot change such as family history, however, there are also many lifestyle factors we can avoid.

Ways to avoid oral cancer:

• Limit alcohol consumption
• Quit smoking (including e-cigarettes)
• Avoid prolonged sun exposure
• Practice safe oral sex
• Consume daily recommended vegetables and fruits
• Visit the dentist regularly
• Maintain a healthy mouth

How is oral cancer diagnosed?

At My Dental Care @ West End, we scan for oral cancer using the VELscope during regular dental checkups. This device uses natural tissue fluorescence to search for changes in the tissues.

However, it can also be diagnosed through one of the following ways:

Biopsy

Involves the removal of tissue, which will be tested by pathology for cancer cells.

Endoscopy

A flexible tube, known as an ‘endoscope’ is used to examine the throat, nose and sinuses.

X-rays

Can be taken off the head and neck to search for any present cancer cells in the jaw, chest or lungs.

Scans

The MRI, CT and PET scans can be used to find the location of the cancer, as well as diagnose the stage and spread of the cells.

How to treat oral cancer?

There are a range of different treatments available such as surgery, chemotherapy, radiotherapy and palliative care for oral cancer. The most suitable treatment option may vary per patient and it is common for a patient to receive two treatments.

Can poor oral hygiene cause oral cancer?

Many studies have indicated that poor oral hygiene is associated with the development of oral cancer. The group of people with poor oral hygiene are the highest at-risk group of developing oral cancer.

This means that maintaining a healthy mouth reduces your chances of developing oral cancer.

We take the health and safety of all patients as the top priority at My Dental Care @ West End, which is why we provide high-quality care and actively check for signs and symptoms of oral cancer during our regular checkups and cleans.

If you would like to find out more information on oral cancer, how we look for it, or another treatment, please contact our experienced team by clicking here.