Risk Factors
Smoking
Alcohol
Sexually transmitted virus(HPV)- This is actually the biggest risk factor
Symptoms
A painless lump on the lip,in the mouth or throat
A sore on the lip,or inside the mouth that does not heal
A painless white or red patch on the gums, tongue or lining of the mouth
Pain or difficulty with chewing or swallowing
Swelling of the jaw
Discolored lesions on the border of the tongue
If symptoms persist for more than two weeks, you may want to make an appointment with a health professional for a definitive diagnosis.
Cancers of the mouth and throat are often found during routine dental appointments. At Dr. Smyth's office our hygienists preform oral cancer screenings at your routine check up appointments. If you should have any questions or concerns about oral cancer, Dr. Smyth and Dr. Abernethy would be more than happy to speak with you.
Sources:
The Oral Cancer Foundation
emedicine
