1 Important Reason To See Your Dentist Regularly
When was the last time you visited our office for a hygiene examination and cleaning? These exams are extremely important for both your oral and overall health. Many patients are surprised to learn that we do much more than just clean your teeth and inspect for decay. We also inspect for other serious conditions such as gum disease and oral cancer. Oral cancer screenings are extremely important and only take moments to complete. Do you know if you are at risk for developing oral cancer? Continue reading to learn more about oral cancer and what to do if you are a high risk candidate for developing this disease.
Important Information About Oral Cancer
Oral cancer is a form of cancer that can affect any part of the mouth or oral cavity. You might be surprised to learn that this includes not only the entire inside the mouth, but also the lips, sinuses, and throat. According to the Oral Cancer Foundation and the American Cancer Society, approximately 54,000 Americans are diagnosed with oral cancer yearly. As with any form of cancer, early detection is key to a full recovery.
At-Risk Patients
There are certain lifestyle choices and hereditary issues that can put certain patients at higher risk for developing oral cancer. These risks include:
- Use of tobacco products
- Frequent overconsumption of alcohol
- Excess body weight
- Unhealthy diet
- Prolonged and continuous sun and UV exposure
- A large number of patients are diagnosed with oral cancer every year who have no risk factors. Men are also more prone to oral cancer, as well as patients with a family history of the disease. If you fall into any of the high-risk categories mentioned above, you should be diligent in scheduling their routine appointments.
Warning Signs
If you notice any of these warning signs, we recommend calling our office as soon as possible:
- A sore or irritated area that does not heal
- Red or white patches in the mouth
- A lump or rough spot in the mouth
- Discomfort or tenderness in the gums, cheeks, or tongue
- A feeling that something is stuck in your throat
If you are in need of a routine hygiene examination or are noticing one of the warning signs above, be sure to contact our office located in Wayne, NJ. We look forward to seeing you at your next appointment.
