Did you know that 1 person every hour of every day dies from oral or oropharyngeal cancer? According to the Oral Cancer Foundation, 54,000 people are diagnosed annually. Unfortunately, 43% of new cases will not survive longer than 5 years. Those who do often face life-altering problems, like facial disfigurement or difficulty speaking. April is Annual Oral Cancer Awareness Month, dedicated to enhancing public education about the importance of regular oral cancer screenings. Although you may not think you’re at risk, here’s why you may want to think twice about skipping your next dental cleaning and checkup.
Signs and Symptoms of Oral Cancer
You don’t have to be a smoker to be at risk of oral cancer. While tobacco and alcohol are linked to it, anyone can develop oral cancer. The low 5-year survival rate is attributed to late detection. Too often it’s not found until it has reached advanced stages or metastasized.
The Oral Cancer Foundation encourages everyone to practice the habit of checking their mouth regularly for any signs or symptoms, which includes:
- Sores or ulcers that don’t heal within 14 days.
- Red, white, or black discoloration inside of the mouth.
- Tissues that bleed easily.
- A lump or hard spot in the soft tissues.
- Growths or raised tissue.
- Sores under dentures that won’t heal.
- Lump or thickening of the mouth.
- Firm lump on the outside of the mouth lasting longer than 2 weeks.
- Voice hoarseness.
- Feeling like something is caught in the throat.
- Difficulty swallowing.
Who’s at Risk?
Oral cancer doesn’t discriminate based on age or gender, but people over 50 have a higher risk. Besides alcohol and tobacco, the human papillomavirus (HPV) is connected to oral cancer, most commonly occurring in the tonsils or the base of the tongue. Although 99% of people with HPV clear the virus, it can lay dormant for decades in those who don’t, which can potentially lead to cancer down the road.
Benefit from the Power of Early Detection
Healthcare professionals report that 80% of oral cancer cases can be diagnosed early through regular screenings at routine dental appointments. During your semi-annual cleaning and checkup, your dentist will look for more than just cavities and tooth decay. They will also examine your oral tissues and structures to look for any abnormalities. If they find anything concerning, they may take a biopsy to test in the lab. Based on the results, they’ll inform you if any additional testing or treatments are needed.
If you develop any signs of oral cancer between your regular appointments, don’t wait to contact your dentist. Early detection is crucial to ensuring a positive outcome.
About Dr. Bobby Shirley
Dr. Shirley earned his dental degree at the University of Louisville School of Dentistry and has regularly continued his education in advanced services. He focuses on prevention to promote each patient’s oral health and wellness. He is a proud member of many professional organizations, including the American Dental Association. If you need an oral cancer screening, request an appointment through our website or call (770) 445-6606.
