Oral cancer is a serious condition that affects millions of people worldwide. It can be fatal if not detected early. One of the best ways to detect oral cancer early is to perform a self-examination.

This is a simple procedure that can be done at home, and it takes only a few minutes. In this article, we will provide you with a step-by-step guide on how to perform a self-examination for oral cancer.

Step 1: Check for Lumps and Bumps

The first step in a self-examination for oral cancer is to check for any lumps or bumps in your mouth. Use a mirror to look at the inside of your mouth, including your cheeks, tongue, and gums.

Feel the inside of your mouth with your fingers to check for any areas that feel hard or have an unusual texture. If you notice any lumps or bumps, make an appointment to see your dentist or doctor for further evaluation.

Step 2: Check for Red or White Patches

The next step is to check for any red or white patches in your mouth. These patches can be a sign of oral cancer. Look for any areas that appear sore or irritated.

If you notice any red or white patches, make an appointment with your dentist or doctor as soon as possible.

Step 3: Check for Sores or Ulcers

Check for any sores or ulcers in your mouth that do not heal within two weeks. These can be a sign of oral cancer. Use a mirror to look at the inside of your mouth, including your cheeks, tongue, and gums.

If you notice any sores or ulcers that do not heal, make an appointment with your dentist or doctor as soon as possible.

Step 4: Check for Changes in Color

Check for any changes in color in your mouth. Look for areas that appear darker or lighter than usual. These changes in color can be a sign of oral cancer. Make an appointment with your dentist or doctor if you notice any changes in color in your mouth.

Step 5: Check for Difficulty Swallowing

Check for any difficulty swallowing. This can be a sign of oral cancer. If you have difficulty swallowing, make an appointment with your dentist or doctor as soon as possible.

Step 6: Check for Numbness or Tingling

Check for any numbness or tingling in your mouth or lips. These can be a sign of oral cancer. If you experience any numbness or tingling, make an appointment with your dentist or doctor as soon as possible.

Step 7: Check for Pain

Check for any pain in your mouth, tongue, or throat. This can be a sign of oral cancer. If you experience any pain, make an appointment with your dentist or doctor as soon as possible.

Step 8: Check for Loose Teeth

Check for any loose teeth or changes in fit of your denture. This can be a sign of advanced oral cancer. If you experience any loose teeth or changes in fit of your denture, make an appointment with your dentist or doctor as soon as possible.

Step 9: Check for Swelling

Check for any swelling in your mouth or neck. This can be a sign of oral cancer. If you notice any swelling, make an appointment with your dentist or doctor as soon as possible.

Step 10: Check for Persistent Bad Breath

Check for any persistent bad breath. This can be a sign of oral cancer. If you experience any persistent bad breath, make an appointment with your dentist or doctor as soon as possible.

Performing a self-examination for oral cancer is simple and easy to do. It is important to note that a self-examination should not replace regular dental checkups.

Regular dental checkups are essential for maintaining good oral health and detecting oral cancer early.

Conclusion

If you notice any of the symptoms listed above, make an appointment with your dentist or doctor as soon as possible. Early detection is crucial in the treatment of oral cancer.

Remember, performing a self-examination at home is a simple and easy way to detect oral cancer early.