Search

Categories

Word Count


Issue

April 2019

Oral cancer: Spot the warning signs


(NC) Oral and oropharyngeal cancers, now among the 10 most common cancers worldwide, often go unnoticed at first because they can develop without pain or symptoms. But, if the cancer is detected early and before it has spread to other tissues, it can usually be treated successfully.

Dental hygienists provide oral cancer screenings at each appointment and will make referrals to specialists if they spot anything unusual. Between appointments, however, we all have a role to play by watching for any of the following changes in our mouths:

  • Alterations to the colour or texture of gums, cheeks, lips or tongue
  • Mouth lumps or sores that do not heal within 14 days;
  • Chronic sore throat or cough;
  • Difficulty swallowing;
  • Lumps in the neck, including those that aren’t bothersome;
  • Mouth or ear pain.

Tobacco use, alcohol consumption, sun exposure to the lips, and the human papillomavirus are all known risk factors for oral cancers. By modifying our lifestyle, ensuring that our children receive the HPV vaccine, examining our mouths for suspicious changes, and scheduling regular dental hygiene visits, we can reduce our risk of illness. 

Find tips and tools to help you check your mouth for oral cancer at dentalhygienecanada.ca.


Media Attachments Related Posts
Terms of Use

All News Canada content is provided free of charge. Any source/sponsor of the information must also be identified as presented. For articles, credit of usage must be attributed to News Canada with "(NC)" at the beginning of an article or "www.newscanada.com" or "– News Canada" at the end. Images are only to be used with corresponding editorial copy. Usage of News Canada content constitutes your acceptance of these terms and an agreement between you and News Canada.

Disclaimer: Comments and opinions in News Canada content are those of their respective contributors only. The views expressed do not necessarily represent the views of News Canada Inc., its management or employees. News Canada Inc. is not responsible, and disclaims any and all liability, for the content of comments provided by contributors.