We usually think that the danger associated with tobacco use is lung cancer first. However, tobacco use, be it smoked or not, is associated with several types of cancer, such as cancer of the tongue, lip, and salivary glands.

Non-healing ulcers or white or red patches in the mouth are the early warning signs of oral cancer. Oral cancer is first indicated in the form of nodules in the neck, which spreads through a process called metastasis. Besides, the symptoms linked to oral cancer include a burning sensation, swelling or nodules (small lumps or knots), discoloration inside the mouth, difficulty swallowing, and more.

Tobacco, no matter in which form, is equally responsible for causing cancer. India is the most affected region in the world with tobacco-related cancer cases, where the situation worsens because of the fewer number of mouth cancer treatment hospitals. Despite several efforts, oral cancer still casts its dark shadow over people of all age groups due to the lack of awareness programs. Moreover, it has been found that approximately 35% of India’s adult population uses some types of tobacco, including both smoked and smokeless tobacco products, like beedis, cigarettes, chillum, hookah, khaini, gutkha, paan with tobacco, and paan masala. Each one of these products is dangerous.

A highly qualified dentist can identify these signs, ensuring that the process of screening for oral cancer is painless. Although visiting the dentist regularly is quite significant for tobacco users, they should also adopt a habit of self-examination. Self-examination includes looking into the mouth to check for ulcers, white or red patches, discoloration of the skin, swellings, lumps or nodules, or thickening of the skin. If you come across any of these symptoms during self-examination, immediate attention from a dental healthcare professional is advised.

Fundamentally, tobacco users must not let fear stand in the way of regular examinations. The improved results related to early detection should inspire tobacco users to take necessary action.

For regular oral health check-ups visit the World Of Dentistry, wherein you’ll get the best dental treatments under the supervision of the best team of senior dental surgeons.

Book Your Appointment Now!