What is the meaning of Oral Cancer?
Oral Cancer is widely used term in Dental Conditions.
Oral cancer is a dental condition characterized by the growth of malignant cells in the oral cavity, which includes the lips, tongue, gums, inner lining of the cheeks, roof and floor of the mouth. It is also known as mouth cancer or oral cavity cancer.
This condition often starts as a small, painless sore or discolored patch in the mouth that does not heal within two weeks. As the disease progresses, other symptoms can manifest such as persistent mouth ulcers, difficulty or pain while swallowing, chronic hoarseness, a lump or thickening in the mouth or neck area, and unexplained weight loss.
Oral cancer can be caused by various factors, including tobacco and alcohol use, prolonged exposure to sunlight (for lip cancer), a family history of oral cancer, a weak immune system, and certain viral infections, such as human papillomavirus (HPV). Early detection and prompt treatment are crucial for better outcomes, as oral cancer can spread to nearby tissues and lymph nodes, making it more difficult to treat.
Regular dental check-ups, self-examinations, and lifestyle modifications like quitting smoking and limiting alcohol consumption can help reduce the risk of developing oral cancer.
Feel free to get in touch with experts, if you have any questions about Oral Cancer. You can also browse more terms meanings on our dictionary page.