Oral cancer takes the life of one person every hour, every day. It is estimated that more than 50,000 new cases will be diagnosed in the U.S. this year, with nearly 50% unlikely to survive more than five years. Detecting this deadly disease in its earliest stages is crucial, and it’s why so many dentists emphasize the importance of oral cancer screenings. Read on to learn more about the risks and why you shouldn’t wait to schedule an appointment for a dental checkup.
What Are the Risk Factors of Oral Cancer?
There are many risk factors associated with oral cancer. It’s important to know what kind of lifestyle habits you should avoid if you want to lower your chances of developing this serious disease:
- Those who are heavy drinkers and smoke are at risk
- Individuals who are over the age of 50
- Those who are nonsmokers but have the HPV16 virus (commonly associated with cervical cancer)
- Prolonged UV light exposure
What Are the Symptoms of Oral Cancer?
You may be unaware of the symptoms that can indicate oral cancer, but if you know what to look for, you can schedule an appointment with your dentist for an official screening. Some of the most common signs include:
- Oral sores that will not go away
- Red or white patches of soft oral tissue on your gums, tongue, or mouth
- Difficulty chewing, swallowing, or speaking
- A change in your bite when you close your mouth
- Pain in your mouth or lips
- A hard lump that feels rough
- Loose teeth or ill-fitting dentures
- Feeling as if something is caught in your throat
- Being hoarse
Why You Should See Your Dentist for an Oral Cancer Screening
You may be curious about why you should see your dentist for an oral cancer screening, but the truth is that they are trained to detect early signs. As dental professionals, the mouth is their area of expertise, so identifying abnormalities that might indicate oral cancer is part of the training they receive.
Most dentists offer oral cancer screenings during regular dental checkups and cleanings, which should occur every six months. During these visits, they will ask you about your medical history, whether any changes have occurred, and whether you have noticed any strange symptoms. After a thorough check of your mouth, throat, jaw, neck, and tonsils, they will determine if you need additional testing.
This quick, easy process takes only minutes but can save your life. If you want to be more proactive about safeguarding your oral and overall health, don’t wait to schedule your next oral cancer screening.
About the Author
Dr. Mark Makram cares about his patients’ health and well-being, which is why he recommends oral cancer screenings during regular dental checkups. Qualified to detect changes and abnormalities in the face, neck, and mouth, he can determine whether you need additional testing from an outside physician who can offer a formal diagnosis if oral cancer is found. Visit our website or call (239) 513-9990 to schedule a screening today.