Oral cancer can affect any part of the mouth but is commonly found in the tongue, floor of the mouth, lips and inside surface of the cheeks.
The two main risk factors for oral cancer are smoking and frequent alcohol use. These two things as a combination form the highest risk category for oral cancer. (Please note: alcohol use includes frequent use of mouthwash containing alcohol).
As dentists we recommend that people look out for red and white patches in the mouth and sores and ulcers that don’t heal within 2 weeks. In most cases these areas will turn out to be harmless, but it is important not to delay diagnosis.
