Understanding mouth cancer and how to prevent it
Dentists can play a vital role in recognizing and referring patients with alcohol use disorder (AUD) for care that includes evidence-based treatment approaches, support groups, and personalized treatment plans. This summary provides an overview of effective treatment options for AUD. This is especially important to improve oral health and reduce risk for oral cancers.
November is Mouth Cancer Awareness Month, an important time to learn about mouth cancer, as well as gum diseases like gingivitis and periodontitis, that can increase your risk.
Mouth cancer refers to cancers that can develop in several areas of the mouth and throat, including the tongue, tonsils, back of throat and gums. Some of the symptoms include sores, lumps, white or red patches, difficulty chewing or swallowing, jaw swelling, and pain or numbness in the mouth.
Gingivitis, caused by plaque buildup, is the earliest stage of gum disease, which can put you at greater risk of developing mouth cancer. Common signs include red, swollen gums, bad breath and bleeding when brushing or flossing. Although it’s reversible with good oral care, gingivitis can develop into periodontitis, a more serious infection, if left untreated. Individuals whose gum disease has advanced to periodontitis may notice receding gums, loose teeth and pain when chewing.
How to protect yourself from mouth cancer and gum disease:
- Floss daily and brush your teeth twice a day, or as directed by your dental care team
- Eat healthy, low-fat, low-sugar foods, including fruits and vegetables
- Schedule professional dental cleanings to remove local irritants (mineralized bacteria)
- Don’t use tobacco products and limit or cease
Sources:
American Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons: Oral Cancer Self-Exam
Cleveland Clinic: Periodontitis
Healthline: How to Perform a Self-Check for Oral Cancer
Deng K, Pelekos G, Jin L, Tonetti MS. Gingival bleeding on brushing as a sentinel sign of gingival inflammation: A diagnostic accuracy trial for the discrimination of dental health and disease. J Clin Periodontal. 2021;48(12):1537-1548. doi:10.1111/jcpe.13545
Rumgay H, Murphy N, Ferrari P, Soerjomataram I. Alcohol and Cancer: Epidemiology and Biological Mechanisms. Nutrients. 2021 Sep 11;13(9):3173. doi: 10.3390/nu13093173. PMID: 34579050; PMCID: PMC8470184.
Nwizu N, Wactawski-Wende J, Genco RJ. Periodontal disease and cancer: Epidemiologic studies and possible mechanisms. Periodontol 2000. 2020 Jun;83(1):213-233. doi: 10.1111/prd.12329. PMID: 32385885; PMCID: PMC7328760.
The information contained herein is for informational and educational purposes only. This information is not a substitute for professional medical advice and if you have questions regarding a medical condition, regimen, or treatment you should always seek the advice of a qualified health care provider. Never disregard or delay seeking medical advice from a qualified medical professional because of information you have read herein.