April has been designated as Oral Cancer Awareness Month. This year 40,000 Americans will be diagnosed with oral cancer. One person dies from this disease every hour of every day. The good news is that if detected early, this disease has an 80-90 percent survival rate.
In order to help raise awareness and save lives, Beach Dental Center is committed to oral cancer screenings. During your regular check-ups we feel for lumps or irregular tissue changes in your neck, head, cheeks, and oral cavity and thoroughly examine the soft tissues in your mouth, specifically looking for any sores or discolored tissues.
In addition to the health benefits for earlier detection and intervention, early detection and treatment have been shown to provide at least a 36% in costs savings versus detection and treatment of the disease in a later stage.
Anyone can develop oral cancer, and the risk of developing increases after age 40. People who use tobacco have a higher risk, and combining alcohol with tobacco greatly increases the risk. Early detection and education are key factors in preventing and treating this disease. The current death rate is so high, because the majority of cases are discovered in a late or advanced state. If you have any concerns do not hesitate to see a dentist.
Possible warning signs may include:
- A sore inside the mouth that bleeds easily or does not heal
- A color change of the tongue or mouth 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
Understanding the Silent Threat
Oral cancer frequently progresses silently in its early stages, making regular screenings essential for early detection. It can develop in various areas, including the lips, tongue, cheeks, throat, and the floor of the mouth. Many individuals may not realize they are at risk until the disease has progressed. By committing to regular dental visits and oral cancer screenings, you can take proactive steps to protect yourself and your loved ones.
Oral Cancer and the Role of Your Dentist
Your dentist is essential in identifying oral cancer at its earliest stages. Through a combination of visual examinations and palpation, dentists can identify potential warning signs that might otherwise go unnoticed. Using advanced diagnostic tools, such as fluorescence devices or biopsy recommendations when needed, ensures that any abnormalities are promptly addressed. This partnership between you and your dental care provider is your first line of defense.
How Early Detection Saves Lives
Detecting oral cancer early not only significantly improves survival rates but also leads to less invasive treatments. Patients diagnosed in the early stages often require fewer procedures, shorter recovery times, and experience a higher quality of life post-treatment. This highlights the importance of acting quickly if you notice symptoms or risk factors associated with oral cancer.
Raising Awareness and Breaking the Stigma
Despite its prevalence, oral cancer is often overlooked in conversations about health. By increasing awareness, we can encourage more people to seek regular screenings and recognize the early signs. Sharing knowledge with friends and family, especially those at higher risk, can create a ripple effect that saves lives. Let’s work together to ensure oral cancer is treated with the urgency it deserves.
Join Us in the Fight Against Oral Cancer
At Beach Dental Center, we’re committed to making a difference during Oral Cancer Awareness Month and beyond. Whether through educational campaigns, free resources, or comprehensive oral exams, we are here to support your health journey. Take this opportunity to schedule your screening, educate yourself on prevention, and help us spread the message about the importance of early detection. Together, we can fight oral cancer and promote healthier, happier lives.
One of the most effective ways to protect your health is to be aware of the risk factors and visit us for oral cancer screenings. Early detection saves lives, so ask our team about a screening at your next appointment!
