ASK THE DENTIST: Should I be worried about tongue cancer?

 

Tongue cancer is a form of cancer that begins in the cells of the tongue, most commonly the epithelial cells. The most common early symptom of tongue cancer is a persistent sore or ulcer on your tongue. Other symptoms can include red or white patch, ulcer or lump on tongue, difficulty in swallowing and bleeding with no apparent cause.

According to the American Cancer Society, 1 out of 5 patients diagnosed with tongue cancer is younger than 55 years old. With all types of cancer, researches are still ongoing and the definitive cause is still unknown.

The causes and risk factors of developing tongue cancer include:

• Smoking or chewing tobacco

• Frequent and heavy consumption of alcohol

• Human papilloma virus (HPV)

• Family or personal history of certain cancers

• Poor dental hygiene and care of your teeth and gums

To reduce the risk of tongue cancer, taking proper care and maintaining good oral hygiene is key. There are other preventive measures that you may consider to take by:

• Not smoking or chew tobacco

• Reducing alcohol consumption

• Practicing safe sex

• Having a balanced diet

• Brushing and flossing your teeth regularly

Going for regular dental check-ups every six months also acts as a preventive measure towards oral diseases. If you notice any unusual ulcer and swelling, or are experiencing persistent symptoms, visit your dentist or a dental specialist to seek for a professional opinion.

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Dr Tan Kian Meng is a Dental Specialist in Prosthodontics with Specialist Dental Group®. He is also a Clinical Lecturer at the National University of Singapore and Diplomate with the American Board of Prosthodontics. He was formerly a Consultant at Singapore’s Khoo Teck Puat Hospital and Fellow of Maxillofacial Prosthetics and Oncologic Dentistry Fellowship at the University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center. Dr Tan has special interest in prosthetic and implant restorative dentistry.

www.specialistdentalgroup.com | 6734 9393