Oral Cancer: Things That Everyone Should Be Aware Of

The month of April is recognized as Oral Cancer Awareness Month. Oral cancer can potentially be very deadly; of the roughly 54,000 people that are newly diagnosed with the disease annually, only around 57 percent are expected to survive after five years. For the best chances of a successful treatment, you’ll want to have your oral cancer caught early. To that end, your preventive dentist recommends taking the time to learn as much about the condition as possible.

Who is at Risk for Oral Cancer?

Anyone can be affected by oral cancer, but the risk is significantly higher for certain groups. Here are a few of the most notable risk factors for oral cancer:

• Tobacco: If you use cigarettes or similar tobacco-based products, you’ll be much more likely to develop cancer in your mouth.
• Alcohol: Research shows that oral cancer is more likely to affect people who drink heavily.
• Age: According to the American Cancer Society, more than half of all oral cancer patients are at least 65 years old.
• Gender: Oral cancer occurs more often in men than it does in women.
• HPV: If you have tested positive for HPV (human papillomavirus), then you may be more likely to experience cancer in your tonsils or at the base of your tongue.

How Will You Know If You Have Oral Cancer?

Knowing the symptoms of oral cancer can significantly increase your chances of successfully treating it. Take note if you notice:

• Any persistent oral sores or irritations.
• Red or white patches on the tongue or gums.
• Any unusual lumps or rough spots.
• A change in your bite (meaning the way the upper and lower teeth fit together).
• A constant feeling like something is caught in your throat.

If any of these symptoms don’t go away after two weeks, then you may have oral cancer and should seek a diagnosis as soon as possible.

What’s the Most Reliable Way to Identify Oral Cancer Early?

Oftentimes, oral cancer symptoms aren’t noticeable until the later stages of the disease, at which point it’s typically more difficult to treat it. Fortunately, your dentist is in a unique position to catch the warning signs and can alert you if a biopsy is needed. As such, you should make a point of visiting your dentist every six months; an oral cancer screening will be performed as a regular part of each checkup.

About the Practice

At Drs. Belton & Schrimper, DDS PA, we’ve been bringing Rocky Mount patients a different kind of dentistry for more than three decades. Our team is very passionate about dental care and will work together to make sure your smile stays beautiful and healthy. When you visit us for a checkup, our dental experts will keep an eye out for signs of oral cancer. To schedule a consultation at our practice, visit our website or call (252) 937-7878.