Oral cavity and oropharyngeal cancers can strike anyone, regardless of age, with about 58,450 new cases diagnosed each year in the U.S. Sadly, approximately 12,230 people lose their lives to these types of oral cancer annually. 

While the average age of diagnosis is 64, it’s important to understand that young individuals aren’t exempt, as over 20% of cases occur in those under 55. Early detection through regular screenings by your dentist, typically done every six months during a professional dental cleaning, is paramount in combating this disease.

What is oral cancer?

Oral cancer includes malignancies that originate in various areas of the oral cavity and oropharynx. These cancers most frequently occur on the tongue, in the tonsils and oropharynx (located behind the mouth), and in the gums, the floor of the mouth, and other regions within the oral cavity. Additionally, they may show up in less common sites, such as the lips, minor salivary glands (often present in the roof of the mouth), and other oral structures.

Statistically, oral cavity and oropharyngeal cancers exhibit a notable gender and racial disparity. They are more than twice as prevalent in men compared to women, and they are slightly more prevalent in white individuals than in Black individuals.

When considering the lifetime risk of developing these cancers, estimates reveal that approximately 1 in 59 men and 1 in 139 women will face this diagnosis at some point in their lives. 

Signs and Symptoms to Lookout For 

Oral cancer presents a range of signs and symptoms that can mimic other oral issues, such as cold sores and canker sores. Patches may appear within the mouth and can’t be scraped away, indicating possible precancerous conditions. These signs include:

• Leukoplakia: Characterized by flat, white, or gray patches in the oral cavity or throat.
• Erythroplakia: Manifesting as slightly raised or flat red patches that may bleed upon scraping.
• Erythroleukoplakia: Exhibiting patches that display both red and white areas.

Additionally, typical indicators of oral cancer encompass:

• Persistent sores inside the mouth or on the lips that bleed easily and persist beyond two weeks.
• Rough or crusty areas on the lips, gums, or oral mucosa.
• Unexplained bleeding in the oral cavity.
• Numbness, pain, or tenderness in the face, neck, or mouth without discernible cause.
• Difficulties in chewing, swallowing, speaking, or moving the jaw or tongue.
• Unintentional weight loss.
• Persistent earaches.
• Chronic halitosis (bad breath)

Risk Factors for Oral Cancer 

Understanding the risk factors associated with oral cancer can aid in both prevention and early detection. According to the Cleveland Clinic, approximately 75% of individuals who develop oral cancer engage in certain habits or possess specific characteristics, including:

• Smoking cigarettes, cigars, or pipes
• Using smokeless tobacco products such as chewing tobacco, snuff, dip, hookah or shisha
• Consuming excessive amounts of alcohol regularly
• Prolonged exposure to the sun without protecting the lips with sunblock
• Being infected with the human papillomavirus (HPV)
• Having a family history of oral cancer

Prevention Strategies

Preventing oral cancer involves adopting a range of healthy lifestyle habits and taking protective measures. Quitting smoking and moderating alcohol consumption play big roles in reducing the risk of developing oral cancer. Regular dental visits are essential, as dentists conduct screenings every six months during routine cleanings, enabling early detection and intervention.

Protecting the lips from harmful UV rays is also important, as oral cancer can also affect the lips. Limiting sun exposure and avoiding tanning beds can aid in prevention. It’s advisable to use lip balm with an SPF of at least 30 to shield against UVA and UVB rays, thus minimizing the risk of developing cancerous lesions on the lips. By incorporating these preventative strategies into daily life, individuals can significantly decrease their chances of developing oral cancer and promote overall oral health.

Visit Parmer Lane Family Dentistry for a professional cleaning and oral cancer screening.

At Parmer Lane Family Dentistry, we want to help raise awareness about oral cancer to enable early detection as well as effective treatment. Understanding the signs, such as persistent sores or unusual patches in the mouth, along with recognizing risk factors, like tobacco use and excessive alcohol consumption, can help you to take proactive steps toward prevention. 

Regular visits to your dental clinic in Austin, Texas, for screenings conducted by a family dentist every six months, are critical for early detection. We understand that the idea of oral cancer can be a bit unsettling. And understanding the facts is key. Compared to other cancers, oral cancer has a relatively low five-year survival rate. However, with early detection, the chance of survival for five years or more is 81%. 

Let us help you beat the odds. Schedule your next dental appointment today.