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Blog Post

November is Mouth Cancer Awareness Month

  • By Shawn Walton
  • •
  • 05 Dec, 2016
Mouth Cancer Awareness

You know the importance of visiting your dentist regularly for healthy teeth and good oral health. But did you know visiting your dentist can also help screen for cancer? Cancer can occur in the mouth, affecting lips, tongue, cheeks, and throat. Since no one is looking very carefully inside their own mouths, your dentist and dental hygienist are your best bet at early detection of mouth cancers.

According to oncolink.org, people who smoke, use smokeless tobacco, and drink alcohol are at higher risk of developing oral cancers. In recent years, oral cancers in younger people without these risk factors are on the rise. In addition, other cases occur in people with no risk factors at all, so screening is important for everyone.

Mouth cancer can often be spotted in its early stages by your dentist during a thorough mouth examination. If mouth cancer is recognized early, then the chances of a cure are good. A thorough oral cancer screening exam includes more than looking around your mouth. Your dentist will examine and feel your face, neck, lips, mouth, tongue, thyroid gland, salivary glands and lymph nodes for any abnormalities. If you have dentures or partials, they should be taken out to allow the entire mouth to be inspected (source).

In addition to routine dental screenings, be aware of the potential signs of oral cancers and report these to your healthcare provider:

  • A sore that bleeds easily or does not heal
  • A color change of the oral tissues
  • A lump, thickening, rough spot, crust or small eroded area
  • Pain, tenderness, or numbness anywhere in the mouth or on the lips
  •  Difficulty chewing, swallowing, speaking or moving the jaw or tongue.

November is Mouth Cancer Awareness Month. Early detection is key. Make sure you’re seeing your dentist regularly (every 6 months!) and if you’re currently overdue, schedule an appointment with Walton Dental Health right away! Your health is too important to wait.

How general dentistry affects your overall health and wellness. 

By Shawn Walton • 05 Dec, 2016
The health of your teeth and gums affects your body in surprising ways, including cardiac health and your risk of infection.

Why is regular cleaning so important for your oral health?

By Shawn Walton • 10 Oct, 2016
Proper dental care is a vital part of keeping your teeth healthy. October is National Dental Hygiene Month, here are five reasons why regular dental cleanings are so essential.

What You Need to Know About Wisdom Teeth

By Shawn Walton • 25 Aug, 2016
What are wisdom teeth and why do they require removal? Walton Dental Health can help determine when it's time for wisdom teeth removal and what you need to know.

It’s Eye Injury Prevention Month!

By Shawn Walton • 19 Jul, 2016
At Walton Dental Health, we are committed to the health and safety of both our patients and our dental practitioners. Because of this, during the month of July we are celebrating Eye Injury Prevention Month.

Do You Need A Root Canal?

By Shawn Walton • 14 Jun, 2016
Do you need a root canal? How do you know if you need a root canal? Learn this, as well as what to expect during a root canal in this article.

How Are You Celebrating National Smile Month?

By Shawn Walton • 24 May, 2016
The beginning purpose of National Smile Month was to provide education regarding the importance of regular preventative dental care.

Oral Cancer Awareness

By Shawn Walton • 13 May, 2016
April is Oral Cancer Awareness Month. Walton Dental Health supports Oral Cancer Awareness Month and we are currently accepting new patients for oral exams.

Importance of Good Dental Hygiene

By Shawn Walton • 19 Apr, 2016
A beautiful smile can improve your self-esteem and health! Many people don't realize how important oral health is to overall health. Taking care of your mouth, teeth and gums are key in preventing bigger oral health problems. With a few easy steps and regular trips to the dentist, you can reap the rewards of a healthy smile.

A dental checkup every 6 months ensures your teeth are in top shape and there aren't any oral issues developing. In addition to regular checkups, we recommend you practice these easy steps in your dental routine:
  • Brush at least 2 times a day, for upwards of 3 minutes.
  • Always keep your toothbrush clean and know when it's time to invest in a new toothbrush. 
  • Floss daily to remove plaque from places your toothbrush can't reach. 
  • Eat healthy foods packed with calcium, vitamin A and C. Avoid sugary foods and drinks. 
  • Smoking can cause gum disease, tooth loss and other oral health problems. Avoid cigarettes and smokeless tobacco products. 
  • Exercise preventative care and schedule regular checkups. For best results, visit a dentist every 6 months, approximately twice a year. 
At Walton Dental Health, we want you to achieve a happy, healthy, picture perfect smile! With more than 20 years in the business, we provide patient-centered service for a range of dental needs. Let us provide you with superior oral care including extractions, children's dentistry, root canals, teeth whitening, crowns, bridges, implant restoration, teeth cleaning, periodontal disease treatment and more. The steps you take for your dental hygiene now will make a big different later on!
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