Early detection and timely treatment is essential in reducing the devastating effects of oral cancer. When oral cancer is detected early and limited to the surrounding tissues the 5 year survival rate is 82%, which means 82% of those diagnosed will be alive in 5 years. On the other hand, when it has spread to other parts of the body, like the throat or neck, the 5 year survival rate drops to 28%. Early detection is possible by spotting signs of tissue changes.
The most high risk areas are the tongue, under the tongue, lip, and soft palate. Signs to look for include: any lumps or thickenings of the tissues, difficulty swallowing or feeling something is caught in your throat, numbness of the tongue or mouth, or swellings that cause dentures to fit poorly. If these or any red or white areas don’t resolve in 2 weeks they should be evaluated.
There are many things that increase your risk for oral cancer. Over 90% of patients with oral cancer have a history of tobacco use, and smokers are 6 times more likely to develop oral cancer. Using tobacco and alcohol at the same time increases your risk more than either substance alone. Prolonged sun exposure increases your risk of lip cancer, especially the lower lip. Diets low in fruits and vegetables, poor oral hygiene, rough and broken teeth, fractured fillings and loose dentures also increase your risk. Men are twice as likely to get oral cancer as women and the incidence increases after age 35.
At Capitol Dental we include oral cancer exams at every new patient exam and once a year when you see the hygienist. The exam takes about 90 seconds where we will look at the insides of your cheeks, sides and under your tongue, and back of your throat. We will also palpate your jaw, neck and windpipe. If there are any suspicious areas we will either monitor it closely for 2 weeks or schedule the area for a biopsy.