How Fast Does Oral Cancer Spread?

Many people feel scared when they hear the words “oral cancer.” It can start in the mouth and move to other parts of the body. Early treatment helps stop the cancer from growing. You need to understand how oral cancer spread happens and how to reduce your risk. This guide will explain what to look for and how to act quickly.

How Quickly Does Oral Cancer Spread?

Oral cancer spread does not happen the same way in every person. In some people, it grows slowly. In others, it grows fast. How fast it spreads depends on your health, your age, and if you get treatment. Let’s see how fast oral cancer spread can happen in different situations:

Where Does Oral Cancer Spread?

Oral cancer spread often begins in the mouth. If not treated early, it can move to other parts of the body. Cancer cells travel through the blood or lymph system and reach new areas.

Here is how oral cancer can spread:

• It usually starts in the mouth, such as on the tongue, gums, or inside the cheeks.
• It can move to the lymph nodes in the neck.
• From there, it may spread to the jawbone or other parts of the mouth.
• In serious cases, it can reach the lungs, liver, or other organs.

How Do I Know If Oral Cancer Has Spread?

You might not see or feel when oral cancer spread starts. The best dentist Phoenix or doctor needs to run tests to find out if the cancer has moved to other parts of the body. These tests help find the cancer early, so treatment can begin right away.

How doctors check for oral cancer spread:

• They may take X-rays to look inside your mouth and neck.
• They might use a CT scan or MRI to see if cancer has moved beyond the mouth.
• A biopsy (a small tissue sample) can show if the cancer is in other areas.

Some signs that may mean the cancer has spread:

• Pain when swallowing
• A lump or swelling in your neck
• Numbness in your face or jaw

If you feel any of these signs, visit your dentist or doctor as soon as possible. Early testing can help stop the oral cancer spread before it gets worse.

Causes of Oral Cancer and the Spread

Main causes of oral cancer spread:

• Smoking and chewing tobacco.
• Drinking too much alcohol.
• HPV is a virus that can infect the mouth and throat and lead to cancer.
• Too much sun on your lips can damage the skin and cause problems.
• Poor mouth care, like not brushing or flossing, can make the risk higher.
• Broken or sharp teeth that hurt your mouth over time can also lead to cancer.

How Can I Reduce the Spread of Oral Cancer?

You can help stop oral cancer spread by making healthy choices. Taking care of your mouth and your body makes a big difference. These small steps can lower your risk and keep the cancer from getting worse.

Ways to reduce oral cancer spread:

• Stop using tobacco, including cigarettes and chewing tobacco.
• Drink less alcohol or stop drinking completely.
• Visit your dentist every 6 months for a checkup.
• Ask your dentist to check for signs of oral cancer.
• Use lip balm with sunscreen if you are outside in the sun.
• Brush and floss your teeth every day to keep your mouth clean.
• If your doctor gives you a treatment plan, follow it right away.

Let’s Recap

Oral cancer spread can become serious if not treated early. It often begins in the mouth and moves to the neck or other organs. Many people do not feel sick at first, which makes it hard to notice. That is why regular dental visits matter. If you feel something is not normal in your mouth, do not wait. Atrium Dental in Phoenix offers expert care and screenings to help you stay safe.

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