Each year, thousands of Americans are diagnosed with oral cancer. While middle-aged men are more likely to be diagnosed with the disease, more and more cases are appearing in individuals under the age of 40. From bad habits such as smoking and poor nutrition to health-related conditions like HPV and GERD, it is easy to see why your dentist stresses the importance of early detection. Read on to find out more about oral cancer awareness in McKinney and how often you should be checked.
The Stats Behind the Disease: Facts About Oral Cancer
According to the American Cancer Society, they projected more than 51,000 people would be diagnosed with some form of oral cancer. More than 37,000 of those cases would be among men.
- In 2018, it was estimated that more than 10,000 people would die from a form or oral cancer
- Among African Americans, cases of oral cancer dropped 2% between 2005-2014, but the white population saw an increase of 1%. This was due, in part, to the rise of the human papillomavirus (HPV), which is an infection of the throat, behind the oral cavity.
- Symptoms include red, white patches; sores that won’t heal; difficulty chewing or swallowing, a lump in the throat or mouth, or coughing up blood.
- Risk factors include tobacco use and mass alcohol consumption, HPV, too much sun exposure, poor diet, and GERD.
Regular Screenings Equal Early Detection: How Often You Should be Screened
If you’ve heard it once, you’ve heard it a million times: early detection is key! Starting at the age of 18, you should be screened once a year for oral cancer; however, if you begin smoking or using tobacco earlier, you should start receiving annual screenings at that time.
You may ask, “Does it hurt?” “How long does it take?” When it comes to a serious disease like oral cancer, the pain or time it takes to perform the screening shouldn’t be a factor, but luckily, most screenings are done quickly and are pain-free. In addition, you can expect to be screened during a normal dental appointment, and there’s no need to worry because it’s a non-invasive procedure.
What the Pros Know: How Your Dentist Checks for Signs and Symptoms
During your visit, your dentist in McKinney will exam your mouth in its entirety. From your face, neck, lips, and mouth, you’ll be examined thoroughly to determine if there are any signs of cancer. Since not all symptoms are on the surface, your dentist may observe you when sitting down for your exam. A professional can notice even the most subtle of signs such as slurring speech, minor swelling, or even the symmetry of your facial features. Some of the ways you’ll be examined include:
- Touching underneath your jaw and around your neck for swollen lymph nodes. If hardened and feeling as if they’re fixated, it could be a sign of cancer
- Touching underneath your tongue to feel for enlarged lymph nodes in the soft tissues
- Examining the insides of your lips and cheeks
- Extending your tongue to check for swelling, texture, color, and if it moves to one side more than the other. Your dentist will also check the edges of your tongue for lesions.
- Checking the roof and floor of your mouth, as well as your throat and tonsils.
There is nothing hard, painful, or inconvenient about an oral cancer screening. In just a few minutes, your dentist can potentially save your life. Let us reiterate, early detection is crucial! If you are concerned about screening or notice anything out of the norm about your oral health, speak to your dentist immediately.
About the Practice
At OakBrook Dental & Orthodontics, our team of highly skilled dental professionals offer comprehensive dentistry services for the whole family! Providing advanced treatment to our patients, we want to form lasting relationships that will last for years. From preventative dentistry to dental emergencies, we’re here for you when you need us most. For questions about our services, visit our website or call (469) 526-4040.