Oral cancer can be a killer. The American Dental Association (ADA) says that more than 10,000 adults succumb to it annually in the US. Surprising? Why not talk to your dentist at North Park Family Dental about oral cancer screening in his Grand Rapids, MI, office? Dr. Robert Dame is always on the alert for this devastating malady.
Who gets oral cancer?
Men and women do, but statistics cited by the Oral Cancer Foundation show a change. Young women are beginning to catch up to men in the same age group, likely due to increased tobacco usage and exposure to the Human Papilloma Virus (HPV), a sexually transmitted micro-organism.
Also, people of lower incomes with less access to medical and dental care show increasing numbers. Age is important, with 40 being the starting point for higher incidences of cancers in the lips, tongue, and back of the throat.
What does oral cancer look like?
Oral cancer varies in color, shape, size, and location. In general, however, you should suspect any sore or discoloration in or around your mouth which does not resolve within two weeks. Also, if you feel any kind of lump or swelling, tell your doctor or your dentist at North Park Family Dental in Grand Rapids, MI.
Also, you should report any changes in dental bite, voice quality, and ability to swallow comfortably. Problems eating or opening and closing your jaw are warning signs, too, says the (ADA).
How is it detected?
At each six-month check-up at North Park Family Dental, Dr. Robert Dame inspects his adult patients for signs of oral cancer. It takes just a few minutes and is highly accurate.
Dr. Dame looks around and in the mouth, under the tongue, and at the back of the throat. He also palpates, or gently feels, the lymph nodes under the chin and has you open and close your jaw. Suspicious areas will be reported to your primary care physician for biopsy.
Preventing oral cancer
Thankfully, improving certain lifestyle habits can reduce your risk of developing oral cancer:
- Stop smoking and limit how much alcohol you drink.
- Increase the amounts of fresh fruits and vegetables in your diet.
- Use sunscreen on your lips.
- Protect yourself from HPV with a vaccine (ask your doctor).
- See your dentist twice a year for a preventive check-up and oral cancer screening.
Learn more from your dentist in Grand Rapids
Dr. Robert Dame delivers complete dental care, including oral cancer screenings. To learn more about oral cancer, just ask him when you come in for your next six-month cleaning and exam. Knowledge is so empowering.
Call North Park Family Dental today to book your appointment: (616) 361-7265.