There is a certain type of cancer that develops in the tongue. It is vital to watch out for tongue cancer symptoms to prevent its progression.
Cancer is the uncontrolled growth of abnormal cells, causing damage to surrounding tissue. Tongue cancer is a form of oral cancer. Other forms of it include cancer of the lips, cheeks, sinuses, and throat. Early detection avoids serious complications of this disease.
Your dentists at one of the top North York Dentistry practices compiled the symptoms of tongue cancer. If you have more than one of these, it is highly advisable that you schedule a consultation with them.
What is tongue cancer?
Cancer cells cause tumors and lesions on your tongue. The tongue consists of the oral tongue and the base. “Oral tongue cancer” happens in the tongue’s surface. “Oropharyngeal” occurs on the base of your tongue. This is where it connects to the throat.
Some of the factors that contribute to the development of oral are:
- Smokers are a high risk for oral cancer.
- Diagnosis of oral cancer among alcohol drinkers is higher than among nondrinkers.
- A previous family history of oral cancer.
- Human papillomavirus (HPV) is a sexually transmitted disease. It sometimes goes away on its own but others can lead to oral cancer.
Tongue cancer symptoms
Here are the common tongue cancer symptoms that you should not take lightly.
-
- Consistent tongue and/or jaw pain
- Lump inside the mouth
- A persistent sore throat
- Pain when swallowing or chewing
- White or red patches on your gums, tongue, tonsil or mouth lining
- Canker sores
- Bleeding in the tongue for no reason
The importance of dental examinations in diagnosing tongue cancer
A routine dental exam helps detect early signs of tongue cancer. An oral cancer screening exam is always done by your dentist at one of the top Markham Dentistry practices. This includes asking about your medical history. Smoking, drinking, and being HPV positive are considerations that he will take into account.
Oral cancer screening is the physical examination of your mouth. He will look for lumps on your neck, head, face, and oral cavity. Canker sores that have not healed are also checked.
If there are suspicious evidence of cancer, your dentist will do a biopsy to know the answer. In the unfortunate event that you tested positive for tongue cancer, additional procedures like CT scan or MRI will happen. This will give your dentist a baseline on how far spread the cancer is.
How do you prevent tongue cancer
Do not simply look out for tongue cancer symptoms, prevent it by taking care of your mouth.
- Follow a good oral hygiene routine every day.
- Eat a good diet consisting of vegetables and fruits.
- Don’t smoke cigarettes.
- Avoid drinking alcohol too much.
- Protect yourself with an HPV vaccine.
- Practice safe sex with your partner.
- Schedule regular dental examinations with your dentist.
Do not be ashamed or afraid to consult with your dentists at one of the top Markham Dentistry practices. They are glad to offer you assistance and answers to any questions you might have about tongue cancer.
