April is Oral Cancer Awareness Month:
Here’s What You Should Know
At Dr. E’s Cosmetic & Family Dentistry, we believe prevention and early detection are key to protecting your health—and that includes oral cancer. April is Oral Cancer Awareness Month, a time to shine a spotlight on this serious but often overlooked disease.
According to the Oral Cancer Foundation, nearly 58,500 people in the U.S. are diagnosed with oral or oropharyngeal cancer each year. Sadly, many cases are not caught until later stages, when treatment becomes more complex. That’s why regular dental checkups and staying informed can truly save lives.
🔍 What is Oral Cancer?
Oral cancer includes cancers of the mouth, lips, tongue, cheeks, floor of the mouth, hard and soft palate, sinuses, and throat. Like other cancers, it occurs when abnormal cells grow uncontrollably and can invade nearby tissues.
⚠️ Common Symptoms to Watch For
Early symptoms can be subtle, which is why regular dental visits are so important. Contact your dentist if you experience:
- Persistent sores or ulcers that don’t heal
- Red or white patches in the mouth
- A lump or thickening in the cheek
- Difficulty chewing, swallowing, or moving your jaw or tongue
- Hoarseness or a persistent sore throat
- Numbness of the tongue or other areas of the mouth
- A change in the way your teeth fit together when you bite
🔬 Risk Factors for Oral Cancer
Oral cancer can affect anyone, but certain factors may increase your risk:
- Tobacco use (including smoking and smokeless tobacco)
- Alcohol consumption, especially when combined with tobacco
- HPV infection, particularly HPV-16
- Prolonged sun exposure (increases risk for lip cancer)
- Age 40+, though younger individuals are increasingly affected
- Poor diet and weakened immune system
✅ The Importance of Early Detection
The earlier oral cancer is detected, the better the outcome. At Dr. E’s, we perform oral cancer screenings during your routine dental exams. These quick, painless checks can identify abnormalities early—when they are easiest to treat.
Screenings include a visual exam of your mouth and throat and gentle palpation of the neck and jaw area to feel for any unusual lumps or changes.
🗓️ When Was Your Last Dental Exam?
If it’s been a while since your last dental visit, there’s no better time than now. Preventive care is the best care—and it might just save your life or the life of someone you love.
📞 Call us today at 480-494-2435 to schedule your next appointment.
We’re honored to be voted Best Dentist in Ahwatukee—eight years in a row—and we’re here to keep your smile (and your health) in top shape.
Contact us for comments or questions: https://drefamilydental.com/contacts/
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