It can be challenging to identify warning signs of oral cancer, which can vary in every individual. Oral cancer can occur on the lips, gums, tongue, roof of the mouth, the inner lining of the cheeks, and below the tongue. You should visit general or cosmetic dentistry in Longmont like ours.
Some of the signs and symptoms of oral cancer that the dentist in Longmont, CO, looks for during a routine oral exam include looking for mouth sores that are not healing. White or reddish patches inside the mouth, glowing lumps inside the mouth, loose teeth, pain in the mouth, ear, and difficulties when swallowing. We also provide all the oral health care services like dentures, teeth whitening, sealants, veneers, dental implants in Longmont, CO, etc...
As mentioned earlier, it can be challenging for the average layperson to identify the warning signs of oral cancer. Therefore an appointment with the dentist in Longmont must be scheduled whenever patients are bothered by the symptoms mentioned above for an evaluation. The dentist will investigate any other issues for the signs and symptoms to identify whether infections of any kind exist in the mouth.
Oral cancers begin when cells on the lips of the mouth change mutations in their DNA. The variations instruct the cells to continue growing and dividing, causing the healthy cells to die. The accumulating abnormal cells in the mouth form a tumor and may spread to other areas of the head and neck or parts of the body.
The reasons for the mutations in squamous cells leading to mouth cancer have not been identified, and doctors have only identified the factors that may increase the risks of this dreaded disease. The factors that increase the chances of mouth cancer include tobacco use in any form, excessive use of alcohol, exposure to sunlight, and sexually transmitted human papillomavirus. A weakened immune system is also attributed as a cause for oral cancer.
Oral cancer cannot be prevented but precautionary measures can undoubtedly be taken to reduce the chances of oral cancer developing. Adopting habits like stopping tobacco use, drinking alcohol in moderation, and avoiding exposure to sunlight can prove beneficial. Visiting the dentist regularly for checkups is also essential because he or she can detect the warning signs of oral cancer early when the outcome of any treatment offered a successful.
Mertz Family Dentistry
Address 1325 Dry Creek Drive, Suite 304 Longmont, CO 80503