As a valued patient of Toombs Orthodontics, your smile is our priority. Dr. Toombs and our team are committed to your overall dental health, and that includes awareness of oral cancer. While not as common as other cancers, early detection is crucial for successful treatment. This blog post will provide a closer look at oral cancer, equipping you with the knowledge you need to safeguard your health.

Understanding Oral Cancer

Oral cancer refers to the development of abnormal cells within the mouth and throat. These cells can form tumors on the tongue, lips, gums, inner cheeks, roof of the mouth, and throat. Squamous cell carcinoma is the most common type of oral cancer, affecting the thin, flat cells lining these areas.

Risk Factors and Prevention

While the exact causes of oral cancer remain under investigation, certain factors can increase your risk:

Tobacco Use: Smoking, chewing tobacco, and smokeless cigarettes are significant risk factors.

Heavy Alcohol Consumption: Excessive alcohol intake, particularly combined with tobacco use, greatly elevates risk.

Human Papillomavirus (HPV): Certain strains of HPV, particularly HPV16 and HPV18, are linked to some oral cancers, especially those affecting the tonsils and back of the tongue.

Sun Exposure: Excessive sun exposure can increase the risk of lip cancer.

Diet: A diet deficient in fruits and vegetables may contribute to oral cancer.

Weakened Immune System: Conditions like HIV/AIDS or medications that suppress the immune system can increase susceptibility.

Early Detection is Key

The good news is that oral cancer is often highly treatable when detected early. Regular dental checkups play a vital role in early detection. During your appointments at Toombs Orthodontics, Dr. Toombs will perform a thorough oral cancer screening. This painless examination involves visually inspecting your mouth and throat for any abnormalities, such as:

Sores that don’t heal within two weeks

Red or white patches on the gums, tongue, or inner cheeks

Lumps in the mouth or neck

Loose teeth or changes in your bite

Difficulty swallowing or chewing

Numbness in the mouth or tongue

Unexplained hoarseness

If you experience any of these symptoms, it’s crucial to schedule an appointment with Dr. Toombs right away. Early diagnosis allows for more treatment options and significantly improves the chances of a successful outcome.

Treatment Options for Oral Cancer

The specific treatment plan for oral cancer depends on the stage and location of the cancer. Common treatment options include:

Surgery: This is the primary treatment for most oral cancers, aiming to remove the cancerous tissue and a margin of healthy tissue around it.

Radiation Therapy: High-energy X-rays are used to kill cancer cells and may be used before or after surgery.

Chemotherapy: Medications are used to destroy cancer cells throughout the body.

Targeted Therapy: These drugs target specific abnormalities in cancer cells, offering a more precise approach.

Importance of Maintaining Oral Health

While there’s no guaranteed way to prevent oral cancer, practicing good oral hygiene habits can significantly reduce your risk. Here are some key steps:

Schedule regular dental checkups and cleanings with Dr. Toombs at Toombs Orthodontics. We recommend biannual visits for a comprehensive examination, including oral cancer screening.

Maintain a healthy lifestyle: Limit alcohol consumption, quit tobacco use, and eat a balanced diet rich in fruits and vegetables.

Protect your lips from the sun: Use a lip balm with SPF 30 or higher.

Get vaccinated against HPV: The HPV vaccine can help protect against HPV-related cancers.

Seek Additional Support

A diagnosis of oral cancer can be overwhelming. If you or someone you know is facing oral cancer, several resources can provide support and information:

The Oral Cancer Foundation: https://oralcancerfoundation.org/

The American Cancer Society: https://www.cancer.org/cancer/types/oral-cavity-and-oropharyngeal-cancer.html

The National Cancer Institute: https://www.cancer.gov/types/head-and-neck/hp/adult/lip-mouth-treatment-pdq

We Care About Your Smile and Overall Health

At Toombs Orthodontics, we are committed to your orthodontic care and your overall dental well-being. If you have any questions or concerns about oral cancer, please don’t hesitate to discuss them with Dr. Toombs or a member of our team during your next appointment. We are here for you!

Additionally, if you’re considering orthodontic treatment and live in the Prairie Village or Lenexa area, we encourage you to schedule a consultation with Dr. Toombs.