Lip Cancer – What You Need To Know
April is Oral Cancer Awareness Month. Did you know that oral cancer deals with more than just the inside of the mouth? The lips and throat also fall under the category of oral cancer. When you visit our office for an oral hygiene examination and cleaning, not only do we thoroughly clean the teeth, but we also look for signs of decay, gum disease, and oral cancer. We inspect the lips, all around the mouth, and under the tongue as well as look into your throat for signs of a problem. If found in the early stages, lip cancer is easily treatable, which is one of the many reasons we encourage patients to visit our office for a routine visit every four to six months.
Excessive Sun Exposure
One of the leading causes of lip cancer is sun exposure or the use of tanning beds. With all the warnings about skin cancer, more people than ever are using sunscreen before going outdoors. It is important that you don’t forget your lips! Be sure to invest in a chapstick that contains sunscreen and apply it before you go outdoors. It is important to reapply if you are outside for an extended period of time or if you eat and are wiping your mouth. We also suggest wearing a hat to protect your face and your lips.
Signs of Lip Cancer
Between visits to our office, it is important to regularly inspect your mouth for changes to your oral health, and this includes your lips. You may have a problem with your lips if you notice:
- Visible changes to the skin on the lips
- Lumps or growths
- Skin that looks like a scar
- Open sores
- Red patches that bleed and itch
If you notice one of the warning signs mentioned above or are concerned about changes to your oral health, we encourage you to contact our office, which is located in Houston, TX, to schedule an appointment. We would also love to schedule your next oral hygiene examination and cleaning. We look forward to seeing you soon.
