While most people visit the dentist for cleanings or the occasional cavity, few realize that these appointments also offer a chance to perform other important tasks. One of the most unsung of these is screening for oral cancer, a potentially life-threatening condition that can spread unnoticed. April is Oral Cancer Awareness Month, so it’s time to highlight oral cancer as the serious health issue it is and teach patients why screenings matter.
What Is Oral Cancer?
Cancer is characterized by uncontrolled mutations of cells that turn malignant and spread to surrounding systems. Oral cancer, specifically, develops in the mouth or throat, including the lips, tongue, cheeks, roof of the mouth, or tonsils. Because it can take so many different forms and may progress silently, self-diagnosis can be extremely difficult.
What Should I Watch For?
Even though some of the early signs of oral cancer can be subtle, it’s important to pay attention to changes in your mouth. If you notice any of the following, call your dentist and schedule a screening immediately:
- Sores that don’t heal within two weeks
- Red or white blotches in your mouth
- Lumps or thickening in your cheek
- Difficulty swallowing or moving your jaw
- Numbness in your tongue or lips
- Chronic sore throat or hoarseness
While these symptoms can be caused by other issues, they’re always worth checking out. When it comes to cancer, it’s better to be safe than sorry.
Why Oral Cancer Screenings Matter
Dentists are often the first to spot the warning signs of oral cancer. During your routine dental exam, they’ll check your mouth, tongue, throat, and jaw for any abnormalities. It’s fast, painless, and always beneficial.
If something looks suspicious, your dentist may recommend a biopsy or refer you to a specialist. Early detection can make all the difference, as oral cancers found in the early stages are far more treatable than those caught later.
Every hour, someone dies from oral cancer, and it could be prevented with a simple checkup. This April, don’t let yourself become a part of the statistics. Schedule a dental exam and screening, especially if it’s been a while since your last visit. By taking a few minutes out of your day, you could save your life!
About the Practice
If you’re searching for a dentist in Herndon who truly cares about patients, look no further than Premier Dental Care. Dr. Farshad Bakhtyari and Dr. Pooyan Refahi are talented and compassionate dentists who use the latest dental technology to help prevent oral health issues before they start. Call (703) 860-8860 to schedule a preventive care exam with us or visit our website to see a full menu of other services.