According to the Oral Cancer Foundation, approximately 53,000 people in the US will be newly diagnosed with oral cancer in 2019. Although certain risk factors such as the HPV virus, tobacco use (whether it is smoked, vaped or chewed) and alcohol abuse are known to contribute to the development of oral cancers, a small percentage of people diagnosed with oral cancers had no known risk factors.
At every routine visit, we perform an oral cancer exam. A visual inspection of your lips, tongue, throat and all oral tissue/structures is done, as well as pressing down on the floor of your mouth to check for any unusual lumps, bumps or sensitivity. Some symptoms to be aware of:
*a sore that persists longer than two weeks
*a lump, growth, thickening or rough spot
*white or red patches in the mouth or on the lips
*pain, tenderness, or numbness
*difficulty chewing, swallowing, speaking, or moving the jaw or tongue
*prolonged hoarseness
*sudden tooth mobility without an apparent cause
If you notice any of the symptoms listed, or if something doesn't seem quite right, please Contact us for an appointment - early detection is key.