Senior Dental Health Week
FDA reminds older adults of signs and symptoms of oral cancer
Mouth and throat cancers will affect more than 30,000 Americans this year, making the disease the sixth most common cancer for males. And according to the American Society of Clinical Oncology, more than half of all cancer diagnoses and 60 percent of cancer deaths occur in people age 65 and older.
In cooperation with the Florida Dental Association, Gov. Jeb Bush recently proclaimed Nov. 7-11 as Senior Dental Health Week. The FDA sponsors this program to promote good oral health among Florida residents older than 55.
"It’s especially important for older adults to know the signs and symptoms of oral cancer," said Gerald A. Cioffi, DMD, an FDA spokesperson and oral-medicine expert. "The sooner oral cancer is diagnosed, the better the chances for successful treatment."
As part of a regular examination, your dentist can check your oral tissues for cancerous or pre-cancerous lesions. Signs and symptoms include:
- A sore that bleeds easily or does not heal
- A color change of the oral tissue
- A lump, thickening, rough spot crust or small-eroded area
- Pain, tenderness or numbness anywhere in the mouth or on the lips
- Difficulty chewing, swallowing, speaking or moving the jaw or tongue
- A change in the way the teeth fit together
- A lump or thickening in the cheek
- A white or red patch on the gums, tongue, tonsil or lining of the mouth
- Loosening of the teeth or pain around the teeth or jaw; or
- Swelling of the jaw
If you notice any of these signs or symptoms, call your dentist immediately for a professional examination.
Other factors also can increase the risk of developing oral cancer. Oral cancers are more likely to occur among people who use tobacco products — including cigarettes, cigars, pipes and smokeless tobacco.
According to the American Cancer Society, alcohol consumption also strongly increases the risk of oral cancer. About 75 percent to 80 percent of patients with oral cancer consume alcohol frequently. Oral cancers are about six times more common in drinkers than in nondrinkers.
People who smoke and drink have an even higher risk of cancer than those using alcohol or tobacco alone.
Adults may be able to reduce the potential for oral cancer by adopting healthful eating habits. Some research suggests that a diet high in fruits and vegetables may help prevent oral-cancer lesions.