Oral cancer is a life-threatening disease that affects individuals of all ages. Without these screenings, the chances of overcoming the disease decrease. With more than 50,000 people diagnosed each year, more than 11,000 succumb to it. Although more commonly found in older men and among those who smoke or drink moderate amounts of alcohol, the risks extend beyond these few factors and can cause many serious symptoms that may not be detected until you see your dentist. Since April is Oral Cancer Awareness Month, take a few moments to find out why a regular screening is vital to ensuring a longer, healthier life.
What Are Some of the Symptoms Common to Oral Cancer?
You may not realize that you have oral cancer until you schedule an appointment for a regular checkup with your dentist. Many of these signs go undetected or dismissed by the untrained eye; however, it’s important to learn what problems can arise that might indicate it’s time to see a professional.
These symptoms might include:
- Loose teeth
- A change in your bite
- Difficulty swallowing or chewing
- Lumps or rough areas inside the mouth
- Pain or tenderness around your lips or mouth
- Red or white patches on your gums, tongue, or other soft oral tissues
- Oral sores that do not heal quickly
- Being hoarse and/or having a sore throat
Who is Most at Risk for Oral Cancer?
The truth is that oral cancer knows no age, so no one is immune from the symptoms; however, certain risk factors can increase your chances of developing oral cancer, such as:
- Being an older male
- Smoking or using tobacco products
- Drinking moderate to excessive amounts of alcohol
- HPV (Human papillomavirus), which is a sexually transmitted disease
Why Are Oral Cancer Screenings Important?
Your dentist does not only urge six-month dental checkups and teeth cleanings just to check for cavities, tooth decay, and gum disease. They also want to perform an oral cancer screening to ensure your mouth is free of anything that might point to more serious and life-threatening issues.
Dentists are trained to look for the earliest signs of oral cancer. Some even use advanced technologies to detect areas that can be hard to see with the naked eye. However, visual screenings are highly effective in pinpointing problem areas.
It is believed that if oral cancer is detected early on, there is a significantly higher chance of survival. Your dentist can refer you to a physician who can perform additional testing and provide a formal diagnosis. This, in turn, allows for faster treatment to minimize the spread of cancer.
Getting checked for oral cancer is a quick and easy process that causes no pain. By incorporating this into your normal dental checkup, you can walk away from your appointments knowing that your dentist wants to ensure your oral and overall health are in the best possible shape.
About the Author
Dr. Rhiannon B. Presley is a general dentist in Fort Worth who completed her dental degree at the Texas A&M Baylor College of Dentistry. Believing preventive care is essential to better oral and overall health, Dr. Presley and her team at Bonds Ranch Family Dentistry incorporate oral cancer screenings. Since early detection is vital to improving the survival rate for those affected by the disease, she possesses the training to pinpoint symptoms and problem areas as well as get patients the care they need. If you want to take better care of your overall health and well-being, make sure to contact us at (817) 242-5564 so we can help right away.