Cancer of the Mouth, Tongue, Pharynx, Larynx and Esophagus

Smoking can be extremely harmful to your oral cavity. Smoking can cause cancer of the mouth, tongue, pharynx, larynx and esophagus. Early diagnosis can prevent extensive disfiguring surgery but in most cases, the person diagnosed with oral cancer is unable to regain the proper use and appearance of their throat and mouth.

Smokers usually have a higher risk of developing periodontal disease which, if left untreated may lead to tooth loss. 

Smokers and tobacco chewers, should have their mouths checked by a dentist or dental hygienist regularly. Some of the warning signs are:

• a red sore on the lips, gums or inside the mouth that does not heal 
  within 2 weeks or bleeds easily
  
  
• white, scaly patches (leukoplakia) inside the mouth or lips
  
  
• swelling and or numbness or lumps in the mouth, throat, neck, lips or tongue
  
  
• repeated bleeding in the mouth
  
  
• difficulty chewing or swallowing food
  
  
• difficulty moving the tongue or jaw

Resource Links

• Dangers of Spit Tobacco
  
  Read the facts. There are no benefits of using spit tobacco.