In the Dark Ages, perhaps what frightened people most was just not knowing what causes diseases or how to properly treat them. They felt helpless and hopeless. Thankfully, over the centuries, humans have learned more about the body and how to prevent and address many diseases. To spread knowledge and, therefore, lower fear, April is Oral Cancer Awareness Month and provides a great opportunity to understand more about this form of cancer and remind you to get screened often!
What Makes Oral Cancer Deadly?
Compared to some types of cancer, cancerous cells of the mouth, neck, and oral cavity can be particularly dangerous because they are often discovered in later stages of development. After all, in your own mouth, you have a limited view of deeper areas of your mouth; plus, you may not know what to look for.
However, regular screenings with your dentist provide opportunities to catch and treat oral cancer before it has the chance to put your life at serious risk. In fact, the chances of survival when diagnosed in early stages are above 90 percent!
What Are Symptoms of Oral Cancer?
Oral cancer can be tricky to identify early on. For instance, if you aren’t paying attention, you could miss abnormally red or white tissue, a sore that has taken longer than a few weeks to heal, lumps in your neck, tissue that feels extra thick in certain areas, and trouble swallowing. Often, these changes in oral tissues occur toward the back of the mouth and work their way forward.
What Are the Risk Factors of Oral Cancer?
In the past, tobacco and alcohol use dominated the top spots for risk factors. However, more recently, the human papillomavirus (HPV) has increasingly been connected to cases of oral cancer. Although limiting the use of tobacco products and alcohol can lower your risk, consider getting the HPV vaccine to reduce your risk of damaging cells in and around the oral cavity. In addition, regular screenings can ensure early detection, significantly raising your chances of survival if you do get the disease.
How Can I Get an Oral Cancer Screening?
Fortunately, you don’t have to do anything extra or special to get an oral cancer screening. You simply need to continue having your semi-annual cleaning and checkup with your dentist. They are trained to recognize the symptoms and signs, and they can alert you if they see anything suspicious or worthy of further testing when they see you every six months.
Now that you know more about oral cancer, it doesn’t have to be scary to you. Applying what you’ve learned, you can prevent cancerous cells from developing or identify and treat them as soon as possible. Partner with your dentist to make sure oral cancer doesn’t cut your life short. With more awareness, you can live a longer, happier life!
About the Author
Although still on the early side of his career, Dr. Stephen Boyles has achieved accomplishments some dentists never do in 30+ years. He is a Master with the Academy of General Dentistry, which means he has dedicated substantial time to advanced training and has demonstrated his proficiency in the field. In addition to his qualifications, Dr. Boyles genuinely cares about helping people avoid unnecessary harm and learn about their oral health. To schedule an oral cancer screening with him, contact Boyles General Dentistry & Dental Implant Center by phone at 432-685-7011 or online to set a time and date.