Dental Terms
Oral Cancer Mississauga
Oral Cancer Awareness and Prevention in Mississauga
Oral cancer, which encompasses cancers of the mouth and the pharynx (part of the throat), is a significant health concern. In the United States, an estimated 28,000 Americans will be diagnosed with oral cancer this year, and sadly, it will lead to approximately 7,000 deaths. While it ranks as the 6th most common cancer in men and the 14th most common in women, oral cancer is a condition that can have a profound impact on anyone's life.
It's essential to understand that oral cancer can progress rapidly, making early detection and prevention crucial. On average, approximately 59 percent of individuals diagnosed with this disease will survive for more than five years.
Oral cancer primarily affects individuals over the age of 40, with a significantly higher incidence among men compared to women.
Lower Your Risk of Oral Cancer in Mississauga
The good news is that most cases of oral cancer are preventable, and several steps can be taken to reduce your risk:
- Avoid Tobacco Products: Whether it's cigarettes, chew, snuff, pipes, or cigars, all forms of tobacco increase the risk of oral cancers. Quitting tobacco significantly lowers your risk.
- Moderate Alcohol Consumption: If you consume alcohol, do so in moderation. Excessive alcohol use is linked to a higher risk of oral cancer.
- Protect Your Lips: Use lip balm that contains sunscreen to shield your lips from the harmful effects of sunlight, as lip cancer is associated with sun exposure.
- Healthy Diet: Incorporate plenty of fruits and vegetables into your diet as part of a low-fat, high-fiber eating plan. This can help reduce your overall cancer risk. The National Cancer Institute recommends at least five servings of fruits and vegetables daily.
Possible Signs & Symptoms: When to Seek Help in Mississauga
If you experience any of the following symptoms for more than two weeks, it's crucial to seek professional evaluation by Dr. Aatika Ahmed in Mississauga or a physician:
- A persistent sore, irritation, lump, or thick patch in your mouth, lip, or throat.
- A white or red patch inside your mouth.
- A sensation of something caught in your throat.
- Difficulty chewing or swallowing.
- Trouble moving your jaw or tongue.
- Numbness in your tongue or other areas of your mouth.
- Swelling of your jaw that affects the fit and comfort of your dentures.
- Pain in one ear without hearing loss.
Early Detection Saves Lives
Early detection is vital for the successful treatment of oral cancer. Fortunately, oral cancer examinations are quick, painless, and take just a few minutes. Your regular dental check-up at Smile Horizons Dental Arts in Mississauga, led by Dr. Aatika Ahmed or a dental hygienist, provides an excellent opportunity for this examination. During the check-up, your face, neck, lips, and entire mouth will be thoroughly examined for any potential signs of cancer.
While oral cancer exams are an essential part of your regular dental check-up, please note that certain parts of the pharynx are not visible during this examination. If you have concerns or risk factors that may require specialized evaluation, discuss this with Dr. Aatika Ahmed at Smile Horizons Dental Arts in Mississauga.
Contact Smile Horizons Dental Arts in Mississauga Today
Your oral health matters, and taking proactive steps to prevent oral cancer is crucial. If you have any concerns, don't hesitate to reach out to Smile Horizons Dental Arts at (905) 607-8778 to book your appointment for a comprehensive oral cancer examination. Our practice is conveniently located at 3145 Dundas St W, Unit 13 in Mississauga, ON. Your well-being is our priority, and we are here to support your oral health journey.
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