MOUTH CANCER:
THE SILENT KILLER
Did you know that every year, oral cancer kills more people than either cervical or skin cancer? The statistics surrounding this condition are truly staggering – only half of patients diagnosed go on to survive more than five years, and nearly 25% of cases occur in people who don’t participate in any of the common risk factors like excessive tobacco/alcohol use. At Flawless Smile Dentistry, our doctors wants to help you fight oral cancer, and routine screenings are a valuable asset in diagnosing cancerous tissues as early on as possible, boosting the chances of a successful, lasting recovery. Contact our Claremore or Broken Arrow office today to schedule your first appointment with our team!
WARNING SIGNS OF MOUTH CANCER
- A painless white or red spot on the oral tissues.
- Sores that heal at a suspiciously slow rate and/or bleed easily.
- Thickened lumps, excessively rough spots, or eroded areas within the mouth.
- Feelings of tenderness or numbness located within the mouth or somewhere along the lips.
If our doctors discovers a suspicious area, he can help you arrange a biopsy to identify whether cancerous or pre-cancerous cells are present. If at any point between regular appointments, you notice a change in your oral tissues that resembles the symptoms above, don’t hesitate to reach out to our team.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
What does an oral cancer screening include during a routine dental visit?
Why is early detection so important with oral cancer?
What symptoms should I watch for between screening appointments?
Who is at higher risk for developing oral cancer?
What happens if a screening shows an unusual area?
RISK FACTORS FOR MOUTH CANCER
- Tobacco and alcohol use
- Excessive sun exposure
- Human papillomavirus (HPV)
- Poor oral hygiene
- Being a male over 45 years old
