April is Oral Cancer Awareness Month
April is Oral Cancer Awareness Month.
It's no secret that visiting the dentist on a regular basis and practicing good oral hygiene is beneficial to everyone. One reason these regular visits are so important to one's overall health is due to the early detection of oral cancer.
Oral cancer is not a rare disease and unfortunately, it is on the rise. This year, approximately 45,780 people will be diagnosed with oral cancer in the United States alone. Due to late stage discovery, one American dies every hour from oral cancer. This is why it is essential to schedule regular visits with your dentist.
Here are some common factors that increase your risk of oral cancer.
Oral Cancer Risk Factors:
- Tobacco, smoking, and alcohol use
- Over 40 years of age
- HPV (Human Papilloma Virus)
- History of previous oral cancer
Oral cancer screenings can be performed during any routine dental visit. Your dentist will check for any abnormalities and inform you if further treatment is necessary, if oral cancer is present.
The most common oral cancer symptoms that people may experience:
- Persistent pain on the lips or in the mouth
- Loose teeth
- Bump or growth inside the mouth
- Mouth and/or ear pain
- Difficulty or discomfort swallowing
- A white or reddish area inside the mouth
Call your dentist to schedule a routine exam and oral cancer screening.
Good oral hygiene requires proper brushing, flossing, and cleaning of your teeth, gums and tongue. Reduce the risk of oral cancer, cavities and gum disease with Summit Oral Care. Our preventive oral care products are ideal for your patients and personalized for your practice.








