It’s one of the most feared words in the world: cancer.

The disease has torn families apart, taken loved ones at too young an age, and caused the most well-equipped scientists to scratch their heads in confusion. While it may not be entirely preventable, there are ways that a person can be better equipped to defend against its onset and recognize the symptoms for the earliest possible medical intervention.

Knowing the causes and the symptoms of the various strains of cancer is a great first step.

Oral cancer, which generally affects the soft tissue within the mouth, has few causes. That is good news for the patients who wish to prevent its onset.

The first and most important step to take if you wish to avoid contracting this form of cancer is to put out the cigarette. The use of tobacco is cigarette, cigar, pipe, or chewing form is the leading cause of oral cancer. In fact, it is linked to more than three-quarters of all diagnoses.

In addition to this, regular alcohol consumption, chronic irritation of the mouth tissue (biting, scratching, rubbing), and poor dental hygiene can increase one’s risk.

Also at higher risk are those people who contract oral HPV (human papillomavirus infection).

If you are concerned that you may have oral cancer, seek the immediate attention of your dentist. Signs that you are infected include an abnormal taste in the mouth, mouth sores, pain with swallowing, speck difficulties, sudden weight loss, and difficulty chewing.

With the use of microscopic tools and biopsy, the dental professional can diagnose the condition and help you on the next steps toward recovery.

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