Oral Cancer

  Did you know that an estimated 34,460 Americans will be diagnosed with oral cancer this year?  Approximately 25% of those diagnosed with oral cancer will die from the disease. Oral cancer can start as a small white or red spot and can be found anywhere in the mouth.  Warning signs include: 

●A sore that bleeds easily or does not heal

●A color change of the oral tissues

●A lump, thickening, rough spot or crusty area

●Pain, tenderness or numbness anywhere in the mouth or on the lips

●Difficulty chewing, swallowing, speaking or moving the jaw or tongue

●A change in the way the teeth fit together.

Persons who use tobacco in any form are at greatest risk for oral cancer.   However, over 25% of patients who get oral cancer have no known risk factors.  The most important thing you can do for yourself is to minimize your risk factors such as tobacco use, alcohol use and to minimize sun exposure.    Regular visits to your dentist, even if you don’t have teeth, are essential for you to be evaluated for oral cancer or pre-cancerous changes.  

-Authored by Robin Hogan, DDS