Oral Cancer in Lake Elsinore, CA
Cancer is a vicious disease in any form, irrespective of where it occurs in your body. If cancerous cells grow within your oral cavity or its surrounding regions, it can lead to severe symptoms of oral cancer. Although it is prevalent, many people are not familiar with the causes and risks of oral cancer. At our practice, we offer screening for oral cancer in Lake Elsinore, CA, for diagnosing this disease at an early stage.
The initial symptoms of oral cancer may not be very noticeable, which is why they can be mistaken for other dental issues. Early assessment and diagnosis can prevent oral cancer progression to an advanced stage. If you have been experiencing unusual changes in your mouth, visit Lake Elsinore Dentistry for oral cancer screening. You can contact us at (951) 579-1010 to schedule a consultation with our dental experts.
Causes of Oral Cancer
Oral cancer occurs when the cells in your mouth or lips develop changes in their DNA configuration. Abnormal changes in DNA lead to the formation of cancerous cells that can divide and grow to form a tumor. Over time, the cells may invade the surrounding regions of your oral cavity, such as the throat and respiratory tract, causing further complications.
Possible risk factors that may contribute to the development of oral cancer include:
- Excessive use of tobacco or smoking
- Alcohol intake
- Prolonged exposure to sunlight (on lips)
- Human papillomavirus (HPV)
- Compromised immune system
Accumulation of two or more of these risk factors can increase the risk of oral cancer. In order to prevent such circumstances, our clinic offers regular screening for oral cancer in Lake Elsinore, CA. Our experienced dentists will perform risk evaluation and address any symptoms that may be present at an early stage.
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Symptoms of Oral Cancer
Initial signs of oral cancer may not become prominent until a late stage. However, you may notice some irregular changes in your oral cavity, such as:
- A sore on the lips or mouth that does not heals
- A small lump inside your oral cavity
- Unusual white or reddish patches
- Excessive gum bleeding
- Mobile or loose teeth
- A constant or dull ache, even in the absence of tooth infection
- Difficulty in chewing or swallowing
- Abnormal occlusion
These are a few symptoms that may indicate the presence of oral cancer. Even if you are not an avid smoker, you may still develop this disease due to other factors. For this reason, we recommend getting regular assessments for oral cancer in Lake Elsinore, CA, to avoid future complications.