The last thing on your mind when you schedule your bi-annual checkup and cleaning is probably cancer. What in the world does your dentist have to do with cancer? As it turns out, more than you thought! Oral cancer is on the rise, even in people who have never smoked. As with all cancers, early detection is key. In this case, the best way to do that is to regularly inspect all of the soft tissues in the mouth and throat. Since you aren’t likely to spend much time in front of the mirror looking at all the nooks and crannies of your mouth, your checkups are an opportunity to let your dentist do that for you!
What is the Prevalence of Oral Cancer?
Nearly 50,000 people in the U.S. will be diagnosed with oral cancer each year. There are multiple risk factors, including tobacco and alcohol use, HPV, excessive sun exposure to the lips, and a weak immune system. However, there are some patients that develop oral cancer who have none of these risk factors.
In terms of prevention, all of the following are recommended:
- Give up, or never start using, tobacco in any form.
- Limit alcohol to one drink per day for women, or two drinks per day for men. Or abstain altogether.
- Avoid prolonged sun exposure on the lips, and wear a lip balm with sun protection.
- Eat a diet rich in fruits and vegetables.
- See your dentist regularly.
How Does Early Detection Help?
Early detection saves lives. When cancer is found early, treatments are less invasive and more effective. Less healthy tissue has been affected and less diseased tissue needs to be removed.
Dentists are trained on where and what to look for in the mouth. You may not notice it when you’re having a dental exam, but your dentist is taking some of the time “looking at your teeth” to actually look at the soft tissues in your mouth.
In addition, if you have any of the following symptoms, be sure to schedule an exam with your dentist to be evaluated:
- A sore that hasn’t healed on its own within two weeks.
- A lump or bump that wasn’t there before.
- A chronic sore throat.
- Pain or difficulty with chewing or swallowing.
- Stiffness or pain in the jaw.
- A chronic feeling that something is stuck in the throat.
There are other, less serious conditions that can exhibit these symptoms, so don’t panic if you notice one of them! Your dentist will either be able to diagnose the issue or will refer you to a specialist. Either way, being checked by a professional will give you peace of mind.
One of the best things about modern healthcare is prevention and early detection. And taking advantage of it is as easy as scheduling a checkup!
About the Author
Dr. Charles Walker has practiced dentistry for over 30 years and truly enjoys helping his patients lead happy, healthy lives by providing comprehensive dental care. He understands how oral health can affect the rest of the body, and always takes the time to thoroughly screen for oral cancer during every exam. He can be reached for questions through his website, or at (801) 467-6886.