Definition

Oral cavity tumors are the result of aberrant cell development in the mouth cavity, leading to enlargement. Oral cavity tumors are located within the oral cavity, specifically between the upper and lower lips, at the junction of the upper hard and soft palates. This disorder can affect the oral mucosa, muscles, mandible, salivary glands, and lymph nodes.

There are two categories of tumors:

Benign Tumors

This tumor has the ability to invade neighboring structures without metastasizing extensively to distant tissues.

It exhibits gradual growth and exerts pressure on the skeletal structure. The tumor exhibits distinct demarcations and is mobile, facilitating its surgical extraction. The impacted region is confined and does not impact bodily tissue. Instances include ameloblastoma, fibroma, and odontoma.

• Ameloblastoma

Ameloblastoma is a slow-growing benign tumor that develops in the jaw. Occasionally, this tumor can exhibit rapid growth and metastasize to the nasal cavity, orbital sockets, and cranial region. Untreated for an extended period, the tumor may progress to a malignant state and metastasize to the lymph nodes or lungs. Surgery is the most effective therapy choice.

• Fibroma

Fibroma is a pathological proliferation of connective tissue resulting from local irritation or damage, as well as the consumption of poor diets. Surgical intervention is a viable treatment option for fibromas.

• Odontoma

A benign form of jaw tumor known as odontomas is most frequently observed in adolescents. This condition has the potential to impair dental development. A normal tooth may resemble an odontoma malignancy. It is composed of cementum, enamel, dentin, and the pulp chamber, and its growth is relatively sluggish. A surgical procedure is the treatment option.

Malignant Tumors

Malignant tumors, also known as cancers, are capable of destroying adjacent tissue and metastasizing extensively. It spreads rapidly and effortlessly to other regions.

Its boundaries are ambiguous, allowing it to penetrate bone. An expansion of the afflicted region is possible in alternative directions. Failure to promptly treat cancer can result in death. Such a condition is squamous cell carcinoma.

Causes

The following are potential causes of oral cavity tumors:

• Genetic factors
• Trauma/injury

Risk Factors

Risk factors for oral cavity tumors include:

• Smoking

Tobacco is the biggest risk factor for oral cavity tumors. Smoking cigarettes, cigars, pipe cigarettes (cangklong), or chewing tobacco can increase the chance of developing oral cavity tumors. Passive smokers are also at risk of developing oral cancer, in addition to people who smoke actively.

• Frequent consumption of alcoholic beverages

Regular alcohol consumption is associated with a significantly higher risk of developing oral cavity malignancies, with a risk that can be up to six times greater than that of individuals who maintain a healthy lifestyle. The risk will significantly increase if the habit of smoking is added to it.

This is considered to be due to the fact that these two detrimental behaviors can harm cells in the oral cavity.

• Sun exposure

Long-term exposure to sunlight or ultraviolet (UV) radiation is believed to be the cause of oral cavity tumors in the lip region. This poses a greater risk for individuals who engage in extensive activities in direct sunlight.

• Poor oral hygiene

Oral and dental health deficiencies can initiate the development of oral cavity tumors. This is considered to be associated with injuries and persistent inflammation in the mouth caused by inadequate oral hygiene, leading to harm to the cells in the oral cavity.

Research supports this by showing that people who rarely brush their teeth, neglect routine dental examinations, have untreated broken or damaged teeth, and frequently experience gingivitis are more likely to develop oral cancer.

• Poor dietary habits

A poor diet, characterized by infrequent consumption of fruits and vegetables and a high intake of hazardous foods, has been reported to elevate the risk of developing malignancies in the oral cavity. Adopting a nutritious and well-balanced diet can mitigate this risk.

Symptoms

Patients with oral cancer may exhibit different symptoms. Nevertheless, typical indications of oral cavity malignancies include the following:

• Chronic pain in the lips or mouth
• Presence of white or red lesions on the gums, tongue, or oral mucosa
• Atypical hemorrhaging, pain, or loss of sensation in the vicinity of the oral cavity
• Enlargement of the mandible or cervical region
• Otalgy
• Dysphagia
• Oral or labial enlargement

Diagnosis

Diagnostic procedures for oral cavity cancers may include a comprehensive medical history and physical examination, as well as one or more of the following tests:

• Biopsy

A biopsy is a medical technique conducted to extract tissue or cell samples from the body. Subsequently, the cell sample will undergo laboratory testing, wherein its morphology will be observed using a microscope.

• Endoscopy

Endoscopy is a medical treatment used for diagnosing diseases and assisting in various medical interventions, including surgery and the collection of tissue samples for biopsy.

• Computerized tomography (CT) scan
• Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)
• Ultrasonography (USG)
• Positron emission tomography (PET)

Management

The management of oral cavity tumors is conducted following a thorough clinical evaluation and additional diagnostic tests to validate the diagnosis. The location of the patient, the size of the growth, the length of the growth, and the patient's general health all play a role in this medication.

Excision techniques, which involve the removal of tissue through cutting or enucleation, can be performed to treat benign tumors.

Conversely, surgical intervention, chemotherapy, and radiotherapy are viable treatment options for malignant tumors.

Complications

Oral tumors and their treatment may contribute to a range of complications.

Possible postoperative complications include the potential for:

• Hemorrhage
• Infection
• Pain
• Dysphagia

Prevention

Prevention strategies against the development of tumors in the oral cavity consist of the following:

• Brush twice to keep your mouth clean. Do it after breakfast and before bed.
• Fluoride toothpaste prevents decay.
• At least every six months, visit the dentist.
• Fill any voids as soon as possible.
• Avoid smoking, chewing tobacco, and drinking alcohol, which might cause mouth cancer.

Stop smoking, reduce the consumption of alcohol, avoid dangerous sexual activity, and see a dentist regularly to avoid oral cancers.

Remember to do independent oral examinations at home on a regular basis. Using a mirror, examine the oral cavity for canker sores, lumps, and spots, as well as wounds that require an extended period of time to recover on the tongue, lips, palate, and oral cavity.

When to See a Doctor?

If the symptoms persist for a duration exceeding two weeks, it is imperative that you seek immediate dental treatment.

Visit the dentist for examinations every six months in order to preserve the health of your teeth and oral cavity.

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