Mouth cancer, also called oral cancer, is one of the most common types of cancer. It can develop inside or outside the mouth – usually on the lips, tongue or floor of the mouth, but also the cheeks, gums, tonsils and other areas.
Read this short guide to learn how to spot possible signs of mouth cancer, how to lower your risk factors and how to arrange a screening with your Gold Coast dentist.
Mouth cancer doesn't always have obvious symptoms, but some of the common signs are:
There could be other reasons for these symptoms, but it's still important to book a check-up with your dentist if you notice anything unusual in or around your mouth.
Oral cancer can sometimes develop with no obvious cause, but in most cases, it's linked with lifestyle factors. Giving up unhealthy habits or making other changes can therefore lower your cancer risk and help to prevent the disease. However, some factors can't be controlled.
The major risk factors for mouth cancer include:
If you're worried that you might have oral cancer, or you think you're at risk, ask your dentist if they offer an oral cancer screening as part of your regular check-up. If your dentist detects possible signs of cancer, they'll refer you to a specialist for a complete diagnosis and to discuss treatment options.
The earlier cancer is detected, the higher the chance of making a full recovery. Treatments depend on the type of cancer and how far it's progressed, and may include surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy or palliative care.
If you want to arrange a check-up or mouth cancer screening on the Gold Coast, contact our friendly team at Robina Town Dental today. Call 07 5575 9100 or find us in Robina Town Centre.
Cancer Council Australia. Mouth cancer [Online] 2019 [Accessed December 2019] Available from: https://www.cancer.org.au/about-cancer/types-of-cancer/mouth-cancer.html
Better Health Channel. Mouth cancer [Online] 2012 [Accessed December 2019] Available from: https://www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au/health/ConditionsAndTreatments/mouth-cancer
Healthdirect. Mouth cancer [Online] 2018 [Accessed December 2019] Available from: https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/mouth-cancer