Every day, you protect your smile by brushing and flossing- but maintaining your oral health means more than just cleaning your teeth and gums. Each year, more than 60,000 new cases of oral cancer are diagnosed, and if not caught quickly, this dangerous condition can even be fatal. Here’s a closer look at why your dentist conducts an oral cancer screening at your six-month checkups and cleanings, and which signs and symptoms you should keep an eye out for on your own!
What is Oral Cancer?
Oral cancer is a broad term for any cancer that develops in the tissue connected to your mouth, such as your tongue, gums, cheeks, lips, tonsils, throat and even the floor and roof of your mouth. It may also appear in the head or neck. In most cases, this condition fits under the category of squamous cell carcinoma.
Oral Cancer Signs & Symptoms
Oral cancer can have a variety of warning signs and symptoms. Please be aware that you don’t need to experience any or all of them to be diagnosed with this condition:
- A persistent sore throat.
- Oral ulcers or lesions.
- Lumps or inflammation in the neck and mouth.
- Red or white patches in the mouth that won’t heal or go away.
- A persistent raspy or hoarse voice.
- Pain when attempting to move the tongue around, or the inability to stick your tongue out straight.
If you notice any of these symptoms, it does not mean you have oral cancer, but if they persist for longer than three weeks, schedule an urgent visit with your dentist or doctor as soon as you can.
How to Lower Your Risk of Developing Oral Cancer
Unfortunately, there is no way to completely prevent any type of cancer from developing; however, the good news is there’s still plenty you can do to reduce your risk, including:
- Don’t smoke, vape, or chew tobacco.
- Utilize safer sex practices such as wearing protection and getting the HPV vaccine, as oral HPV can cause cancer.
- Wear an SPF of at least 30 on your face and lips that blocks both UVA and UVB rays every single day.
- Limit your consumption of alcoholic beverages and never use tobacco and drink alcohol together.
- Visit your dentist every six months for regular oral cancer screenings.
Early Detection Saves Lives
The good news is that with early detection, oral cancer is often curable and may result in a less aggressive treatment regimen. Thankfully, your dentist provides lifesaving oral cancer screenings as part of your regular dental checkup and cleaning appointment. In fact, these exams have been proven to save lives by increasing five-year survival rates from about 30 percent to over 80 percent! While your dentist cannot diagnose oral cancer, if they do suspect you may have it, they will refer you to a specialist who can.
Remember, oral cancer is a life-threatening disease that can appear anywhere in the mouth; however, it can often be difficult to spot on your own. Thus, be sure to visit your dentist every six months for your regular checkups and cleanings and keep an eye out for any of the warning signs mentioned above!
About Dr. Kaopua
Dr. Jason Kaopua earned his undergraduate degree at BYU Hawaii and his dental doctorate at Oregon Health & Sciences University. Since graduating, he has continued to expand his dental knowledge and skills by regularly taking continuing education classes in a variety of oral health topics. To schedule a checkup and cleaning (including a potentially lifesaving oral cancer screening) at Albright Family Dental, visit our website or call us today at 425-267-3333.