Oral Cancer Awareness

Risk factors for oral cancer include tobacco use, heavy alcohol consumption, and infection with the human papillomavirus (HPV). You can lessen your risk of developing oral cancer by abstaining from smoking and any tobacco use and by refraining from heavy alcohol consumption. If you haven’t yet been immunized, speak with your doctor about receiving the HPV vaccine. And talk to your dentist or see your medical practitioner immediately if you are experiencing any of the following oral cancer symptoms:

• Sores in the mouth that bleed easily or don’t heal
  
• A thick hard spot or lump
  
• A roughened or crusted area
  
• Numbness, pain, or tenderness in your mouth
  
• A change in the alignment of your teeth (you notice they fit together differently when you bite down)
  

With oral cancer, early detection is key. If discovered and treated early, there is an 80 to 90 percent survival rate. Unfortunately, oral cancer has a statistically high death rate due to late detection. Your dentist can be your first line of defense in early detection for oral cancer. At Walton Dental Health, we agree with the American Dental Association’s recommendation of two routine visits per year to your dentist (depending on the individual, some may require more visits). Since oral cancer screenings are a part of a more extensive exam performed during routine visits to the dentist, it’s important that you make and keep regular dental appointments. Your dentist should be able to see any abnormalities in your mouth that could be oral cancer, giving you a head start on detection and treatment.

Walton Dental Health supports Oral Cancer Awareness Month and we are currently accepting new patients for oral exams. If you’re due for a checkup, contact Walton Dental Health right away to schedule your appointment with Dr. Walton. Let us help you stay on top of your dental health and one step ahead of oral cancer!