Did you know that oral cancer affects 53,000 Americans every year? It is an incredibly dangerous, sometimes deadly condition. Oftentimes oral cancer isn’t detected until its later stages. At this point, it is especially detrimental. Fortunately, when detected and treated early in the process, many people make a full recovery! Continue reading to learn some facts about oral cancer that you may not already know.
There Are Two Main Types of Oral Cancer
When someone refers to “oral cancer,” they could be talking about one of two different types. Here’s what each one looks like:
- Oral Cavity Cancer: This type of cancer occurs in the front part of the mouth. Usually, it is present on the tongue, floor of the mouth, inside of the cheeks, and lips. The most common culprit is tobacco use followed by frequent alcohol consumption. This type of cancer can be very aggressive.
- Oropharyngeal Cancer: Oropharyngeal cancer affects the back of the mouth, including the tonsils, back of the tongue, larynx, and upper throat. Tobacco, alcohol, and mouth trauma can play a role, but human papillomavirus (HPV) is the most common cause of this disease.
Oral Cancer Doesn’t Just Affect Older Adults
Because fewer people in the United States are using tobacco products than before, the have been fever cases of oral cavity cancers. Most of the time, when there is a case of this type of cancer, it is seen among adults in their 60s and 70s, usually with a history of smoking. On the other hand, there has been a rise in oropharyngeal cancers, especially in adults in their 60s, 50s, and much younger.
Oral Cancer Can Be Extremely Dangerous
According to the Oral Cancer Foundation, about half of people diagnosed with oral cancer will live longer than five years. It is currently the sixth leading cause of cancer deaths in the United States. This prognosis is usually due to the condition not being detected until its late stages, where it is much more difficult to treat successfully. Oral cancer can be very fast-growing, especially when caused by tobacco or heavy alcohol usage.
Oral Cancer Screenings Are Crucial for Early Detection
Every adult should undergo oral cancer screenings – especially if you use tobacco or drink alcohol on a regular basis. If you experience any of the following, you may want to get checked:
- Flat white or red patch in the mouth
- Lip and mouth sores that last more than two weeks
- Growth or lump in the mouth or neck
- Chronic discomfort when swallowing
- Frequent hoarseness
Oral cancer is very serious and sometimes deadly, but by attending regular checkups with your dentist and undergoing oral cancer screenings, you are more likely to receive an early diagnosis and a better prognosis.
About the Author
Dr. Sheng Ji earned his Doctor of Dental Surgery degree from the University of California, San Francisco, graduating at the top of his class. He then furthered his education by pursuing a medical degree, graduating from the University of Texas Southwestern. Dr. Ji completed his specialty training in Oral Maxillofacial Surgery, making him highly qualified to perform a wide range of procedures, including IV sedation and dental implant placement. To learn more about oral cancer or to schedule an appointment at his office in Carmichael, visit his website or call (916) 961-1902.