Oral Cancer - Early Detection & Home Treatments

Oral cancer

Oral cancer is a serious is where a tumor develops on the surface of the gums, lips, or tongue. The rate of oral cancer in India has increased to 60%-90% due to low maintenance of poor oral hygiene. It belongs to a larger group of cancers called head and neck cancers. Most develop in the squamous cells. Mouth cancer grows slowly depending on various factors, including the type of cancer, its location, and the patient’s overall health. Mouth cancer can spread locally and to other parts of the body through a process called metastasis and invade nearby tissues, including muscles, nerves, and bones of the jaw or face this is what mouth cancer looks like,

 

Early symptoms of oral cancer Images

• The very first symptom of mouth cancer is white patches inside the mouth that can't be wiped away also known as Leukplakia

• Small ulcers in the mouth that do not cure within two weeks and bleeds easily.

•  Thickening or lumps on gums and near cheeks

• Numbness in the throat.

• Painful swallowing

• Foul smelling or bad breath due to caused by dead tissues within the tumor.

• The last stage or stage IV of oral cancer is a bigger size tumor spread to lymph nodes with visible Soares and swelling in the mouth also known as prognosis. 

The Root Causes of Oral Cancer

The primary factors leading to mouth cancer can be at any age but Most cancer cases diagnosed start from the age of 40-70. The root cause of developing oral cancer such it arises from a combination of genetic and lifestyle factors. 

• Smoking tobacco or pipes or chewing tobacco causes oral cancer because it includes carcinogenic causing genetic changes in the mouth and 28 cancer-causing chemicals. Pipe smokers increase the risk of lip cancer.

• Over-alcohol consumption increases cancer risk The dehydrating effect of alcohol Some studies have even indicated that cirrhosis of the liver due to alcohol intake, may be associated with an increased risk for oral cancer. Patients with cirrhosis often develop a smooth, glossy appearance to the oral mucosae.

• Poor oral hygiene Certain bacterial infections, such as those caused by Porphyromonas gingivalis and Fusobacterium nucleatum, have been linked to periodontal disease promote cancer development—buildup of plaque and tartar, causing irritation and trauma to the oral tissues.

• Poor diet, lacking vitamins A, C, and E, and consumption of processed food like fried food, which includes nitrosamines, damage DNA. On the other hand, sugary and acidic food leads to tooth decay and gum disease.

Source: Google Images

Mouth Cancer: Self-detection at home

 Early detection of mouth cancer at home can save you just by following these easy steps

Step 1: Check your neck 

Pay attention to the area above the collarbone and along the midline of your neck. and feel along the side of your neck for any enlarged lymph nodes.

Step 2: Check the tongue 

Check for tongue Cancer at home, look for unusual bumps and white patches.

Step 3: check for the roof and floor of the mouth

Tilt your head back and use a mirror to inspect the roof of your mouth (palate) and look for color changes or lumps. 

Step 4: Consult a Family Dentists

Patients should consult their family dentists for early oral cancer detection at home because of regular dental check-ups. For those in Kolkata seeking the best dental clinic near you with oral cancer surgeons, it's advisable to choose clinics known for their expertise in oral and maxillofacial surgery such as Orange Dental, Dentotsav Dental Clinic, Glitter Dental Clinic, and so on.

 

How do dentists do an oral screening?

Healthcare professionals like dentists will conduct visual and physical examinations like biopsies to determine stages of oral cancer and provide treatment to patients further. The treatment is based on oral cancer screening steps

• Staging- Tumor size that is 2cm or 4cm

• X-rays on head, neck, or chest

• Cross-sectional images to identify the body are also known as computed tomography.

• Nodes- cancer has spread to lymph (3cm) or has grown multiple to multiple nodes (6cm)

• Metastasis also known as cancer cell is present or not.

Oral Cancer Treatment

Oral cancer is typically treated similarly to other cancers, primarily through surgery followed by radiation therapy. However, radiation therapy often leads to various side effects for patients. Natural ways of oral cancer treatment at home include incorporating vitamins such as Vitamin A and C, which possess antioxidant properties. Ayurvedic herbs like green tea and the use of plant-based herbal mouthwashes such as Himalaya HiOra K Mouthwash or Dr. Shrubs Oral Cleanse can also be beneficial. Neem, known for its anti-cancer properties and ability to reduce tumor cell proliferation, is another recommended option. Adequate hydration through drinking plenty of water supports natural detoxification processes. Before attempting any natural remedies or supplements, it is crucial to consult with oncologists, dentists, or the best dental clinic specializing in oral cancer in Kolkata, as these treatments may interact with prescribed cancer therapies or medications.

Conclusion

Oral cancer is primarily caused by lifestyle factors such as tobacco and alcohol use, HPV infection, and sun exposure. While predominantly affecting older adults, it can occur at younger ages. Recognizing early signs and symptoms is crucial. Regular dental check-ups, practicing good oral hygiene, avoiding tobacco and excessive alcohol, and understanding HPV risks can lower the likelihood of developing oral cancer early. Maintaining a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and essential nutrients, alongside regular dental visits and prompt treatment of oral health issues, are critical preventive measures. Diagnosing and staging oral cancer involves a comprehensive approach, including medical history, physical examination, biopsies, imaging tests, and laboratory evaluations.