What is oral cancer?
Unfortunately, oral cancer is too often missed by physicians and dentists alike. Physicians tend to look past the mouth and into the throat, whereas too many dentists look at teeth, and nothing else. Oral cancer comes in many forms, such as squamous cell carcinoma, and is most often seen on the floor of the mouth and the sides of the tongue. It is most prevalent with tobacco and alcohol users. As with any cancer, early detection is the key. That is why ALL our exams are comprehensive, and include an oral cancer screening.
Oral cancer is one of the cancers that occurs in the head and neck area. Oral cancer starts in the mouth or oral cavity. Oral cancer is common. If a doctor finds and treats it early, it is very curable. A doctor or dentist can usually spot oral cancer with a routine mouth exam. Of all people who get oral cancer, 90% smoke or use tobacco. Drinking alcohol is also a risk factor for oral cancer.
