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Oral Cancer Screening

REGULAR VISITS TO THE DENTIST CAN BE A MATTER OF LIFE AND DEATH

Oral cancer screening is a routine part of our new patient and annual dental examination. Approximately 35,000 people are affected by some form of oral cancer annually. Sadly, approximately 20% of those who develop oral cancer may die within five years.

Oral Cancer often begins as a tiny, unnoticed white spot, red spot or a sore in the mouth. Although not every mouth sore may be cancer, it is best to be suspicious of an unrecognized sore. It can affect any area of the mouth including the lips, gum tissue, inside surface of the cheeks, tongue and the hard or soft palate and throat.

"One American Dies Every Hour From Oral Cancer."

SOME RISK FACTORS FOR ORAL CANCER

Tobacco use: The number one risk factor contributing to oral cancer is tobacco use. Tobacco in any form, such as cigarettes, pipe tobacco, snuff and chewing tobacco, can be a causative factor. Heavy use of alcohol in combination with smoking increases the chances for developing oral cancer.

Excessive Use of Alcohol: The more alcohol is consumed (beyond moderation), the greater the risk of oral cancer.

Prolonged Exposure to Sunlight: The primary site for oral cancer is the lips. The use of tanning beds and sunlamps is also implicated in the development of oral cancer lip lesions.

GERD (gastro-esophageal reflux disease) - people with this digestive condition where acid from the stomach leaks back up through the esophagus have a higher risk of oral cancer.

Human Papilloma Virus (HPV): Infection of the oral cavity with the human papillomavirus may be a risk factor for oral cancer.

Ill-Fitting Dentures and Partial Dentures: When a denture or partial denture does not fit properly, it causes chronic irritation to the mouth tissues due to slight continual movement and uneven pressure spots. These chronic irritations can be a precursor to an oral cancer.