The preceding post to this shows a video by Blythe Danner. She gives a serious warning to all of us about oral cancer. This terrible disease took the life of her husband. It should help us to make the wise decision to see the dentist at least twice a year. It’s a routine that should not be taken lightly. Sadly, the misfortune of another leads to taking a more serious look at our own mortality. It’s a very tough way to learn an important lesson.
The check up takes about five minutes. It is painless. The lips, tongue, gums, cheeks, palate and throat are given a thorough examination in the process.
The dentist will notice any unusual swellings or tongue-color change. The texture of these organs can also tell if something has gone awry.
Tobacco and alcohol are very irritating and can bring about oral cancer. The same is true for chewing tobacco. Any tobacco product that is held in the mouth for an extended period of time can lead to oral cancer. There is an undeniable, observable connection that dentists have seen for years. It’s no longer a ‘theory’.
Symptoms:
- White or Red Patches anywhere within the mouth.
- Sores that do not heal after a few weeks and may bleed.
- Any lumps or strange changes in the organs or skin surface. This could mean ulcers or forming tumors.
- Loose teeth.
- persistent pain or numb sensations.
Any noticeable sore or growth should be examined. One of the common mistakes about these changes is to think that it’s no big deal. The onset of cancer due to these sores is often painless and then overlooked.