Professor Bukola Adeyemi, an oral pathologist, has warned Nigerians to avoid seeking tooth extractions from unqualified practitioners, as toothaches may indicate serious conditions beyond dental problems. Speaking at the University of Ibadan, she highlighted that toothaches could signal oral cancer, especially when pain is absent.
Professor Adeyemi’s research shows that tooth pain is a common early symptom of oral cancer, with 27.5% of cases initially presenting with non-mobile tooth pain. She cautioned that oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC), the most common type of oral cancer, often progresses unnoticed due to its painless nature in early stages.
Risk factors for oral cancer include tobacco and alcohol use, UV radiation, and certain viruses. Professor Adeyemi emphasized the need for professional evaluation of any persistent or painless oral sore and advised against relying on unqualified practitioners for tooth extraction.
Regular dental visits are crucial for early detection and treatment, improving survival rates and reducing complications.
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