Keeping your teeth clean is important for both cosmetic and health reasons. Common problems that people encounter if they do not take care of their teeth and gums include periodontal disease and cavities. Fortunately, these problems can often be taken care of by a dentist. However, there are diseases that are not curable by dental care, such as oral cancer.

Symptoms of Oral Cancer

Though different factors contribute to a diagnosis of oral cancer, one thing is sure: early diagnosis, as with any cancer, is key. One of the most common causes of oral and throat cancer is cigarette smoking. If you smoke, you ought to quit today, and make a dentist appointment immediately. Your dentist will be able to check for signs of oral cancer in order to catch the disease earlier. Symptoms include sores in your mouth that do not go away, red or white patches, difficulties chewing, swallowing, or speaking, a lump or rough spot in your mouth, continuous pain, tenderness, or numbness in your mouth, and more. Keep an eye out for any of these symptoms, particularly if you are or have been a smoker.

Oral Health and Treatment

As mentioned previously, it is of the utmost importance that you are diagnosed early and can begin treatment. With most cancers, treatment is entirely dependent on the stage you are at and where the cancer has spread. Oftentimes, your cancer doctor and dentist will work closely together to attempt to make your mouth feel more comfortable during treatment. Your dentist can recommend tips, such as drinking lots of water, using sugar-free gum or candy, using a saliva substitute, and more, to help keep your mouth moist. If you haven’t had your six-month check-up yet, contact Chicago Smile Design. With your exam, we can perform a check for any sores or other signs of oral cancer. Courtesy of: Mouth Healthy

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