Oral Biology and Restorative Dentistry

Oral Cancer

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Oral cancer, also known as mouth cancer, is a type of head and neck cancer and is any cancerous tissuegrowth located in the oral cavity. According to the American Cancer Society, men face twice the risk of developing oral cancer as women, and men who are over age 50 face the greatest risk. The overall 1-year survival rate for patients with all stages of oral cavity and pharynx cancers is 81%. The 5- and 10-year survival rates are 56% and 41%, respectively. The American Cancer Society recommends oral cancer screening exams every 3 years for persons over age 20 and annually for those over age 40. In Canada, oral cancer is the 13thmost common cancer of the 23 reported cancers. Three people die from oral cancer everyday in Canada – making the five-year survival rate of oral cancer lower than the survival rates of breast, cervical and prostate cancer. However, the potential for death is significantly reduced if cancer is detected early, making treatment easier, less invasive and more than 90% curable. Age and excessive alcohol and tobacco use are leading risk factors for oral cancer; however, 25% of those who suffer from the disease have no risk factors. Recent studies also indicate that infection of the oral cavity with the Human Papilloma Virus (HPV) may also be a risk factor. A diet rich in fruits and vegetables, particularly fruit, higher levels of vitamin C or carotene consumption reduce the risk of oral cancer. Treatment depends on the severity and location of the disease, as well as the age and health of the patient.