Oral cancer is a devastating disease that’s more common than you may realize. In fact, an estimated 53,000 people in the U.S. will be diagnosed with oral cancer this year and one person will die from it every hour. Thankfully, there is some good news: Oral cancer is highly treatable and has a survival rate of 85-90% when it’s caught early. That’s why it’s so crucial to get regular oral cancer screenings, which are done at each checkup with a dentist in Fox Chapel. And, since April is Oral Cancer Awareness Month, it’s a great time to learn more about these life-saving screenings in this blog!
What Are the Risk Factors?
Many people think that they aren’t at risk for oral cancer if they don’t use tobacco, but there are several additional risk factors to consider such as:
- HPV
- A weakened immune system
- Heavy drinking
- Age
In addition, it’s important to know that oral cancer is being found more often in people with none of these risk factors.
Also, while this disease often affects the tissues inside the mouth such as the tongue or back of the throat, there’s also a type of skin cancer called melanoma that can be found on the border of the lips. This makes regular use of a lip balm with SPF particularly important.
What Is An Oral Screening Like?
Many people are surprised to learn how simple and non-invasive screenings are. And since they’re automatically done at each of your 6-month checkups, they’re convenient as well!
Both a dentist and hygienist will visually inspect your lips, cheeks, throat, palate, and under your tongue. They may also gently palpate your neck and under your jaw to see if there are any lumps, bumps, or tender areas.
Also, be aware of the following symptoms to look for in between visits:
- A feeling like something is always stuck in your throat.
- Difficulty chewing or swallowing.
- A chronic sore throat.
- A lump or bump that’s developed recently.
- Any sores or lesions that haven’t healed on their own within two weeks.
With that said, remember that there are many non-harmful conditions that can look similar, such as canker sores or benign lumps of fatty tissue, so don’t be alarmed if you notice one of these symptoms. Just call to schedule a screening as soon as possible so you can have the peace of mind that comes from a professional evaluation.
With early detection and advances in treatment, oral cancer has a good prognosis. And with regular checkups, it couldn’t be easier!
About the Author
Dr. Ray Voller has almost 40 years of experience as a family dentist in Fox Chapel and is a graduate of the University of Pittsburgh School of Dental Medicine. He and his staff are committed to providing thorough, comprehensive dentistry, including oral cancer screenings at each checkup. If you have any questions or would like to schedule a checkup, he can be reached through his website.