Various disease conditions often related to mouth and face are seen and identified first by dentist.  The field has developed its own specialists who are trained in the diagnosis and treatment of such oral diseases.  This speciality is called Oral Diagnosis and Oral Medicine.  And is often a great help to many patients.

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Oral cancers

Mouth cancer or oral cancer can occur anywhere in the mouth, on the surface of the tongue, the lips, inside the cheek, in the gums, in the roof and floor of the mouth, in the tonsils, and in the salivary glands.

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Symptoms:

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In the early stages, there are often no signs or symptoms, but smokers and heavy drinkers should have regular checkups with the dentist, as they are prone for such disease.

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Signs and symptoms include:

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• patches on the lining of the mouth or tongue, usually red or red and white in color
• mouth ulcers or sores that do not heal
• swelling that persists over 3 weeks
• a lump or thickening of the skin or lining of the mouth
• pain when swallowing
• loose teeth with no apparent reason
• poorly fitting dentures
• jaw pain or stiffness
• sore throat
• a sensation that something is stuck in the throat
• painful tongue
• hoarse voice
• Pain in the neck or ear that does not go away etc.

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These are the situations that need immediate care. A routine dental check up can help to diagnose early cancer