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Cancer can affect any of the tissues in your mouth. Smokers
(including cigar and pipe smokers), tobacco chewers, and heavy
drinkers should be particularly alert to the warning signs. Consult
your doctor or dentist if you notice any of the following.
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A sore on your lips, gums, or mouth lining that does not heal
within 2 to 3 weeks.
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Any white patch inside your mouth or on your lips.
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Any swelling or lump inside your mouth or on your lips or
tongue, even though it is not painful or spreading.
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Unexplained numbness or pain in your mouth or throat.
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Repeated bleeding in your mouth with no apparent cause.
None of the items mentioned above mean that there is cancer
present. In fact, the high probability is that any condition mentioned
is transient or has a perfectly non-threatening explanation. It would
be wise however, to err on the side of caution and have it checked. |
