Introduction
Inflammatory dental cancer is a rare but serious form of oral cancer that affects the mouth, jaw, and surrounding areas. While it’s not common, it’s important to be aware of the signs and symptoms of this type of cancer, as early detection and treatment can save lives. In this article, we’ll explore what inflammatory dental cancer is, what causes it, and how it’s treated.
What is Inflammatory Dental Cancer?
Inflammatory dental cancer (IDC) is an aggressive form of oral cancer that affects the soft tissues of the mouth and jaw. IDC is rare, accounting for less than 1% of all oral cancer cases in the United States. It’s more common in older adults, especially those over the age of 60.
What Causes Inflammatory Dental Cancer?
The exact cause of IDC is unknown. However, there are several risk factors that may increase the risk of developing this type of cancer, including smoking, drinking alcohol, and having a history of head and neck radiation.
Symptoms of Inflammatory Dental Cancer
The most common symptom of IDC is a painless lump or ulcer in the mouth that doesn’t heal. Other signs and symptoms may include:
- Pain in the jaw or mouth
- Difficulty swallowing
- Swelling in the face or neck
- Numbness in the face or neck
- Bleeding in the mouth
Diagnosis and Treatment of Inflammatory Dental Cancer
If IDC is suspected, a biopsy will be performed to confirm the diagnosis. Treatment options may include surgery, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy. Depending on the stage and severity of the cancer, a combination of these treatments may be required.
Conclusion
Inflammatory dental cancer is a rare but serious form of oral cancer. It’s important to be aware of the signs and symptoms of this type of cancer, so that it can be detected and treated as early as possible. If you have any concerns or questions about IDC, be sure to talk to your doctor.