April is Oral Cancer Awareness Month, and as your trusted oral and maxillofacial surgeons, the team at Korb & Taylor wants to share important information about this serious disease. According to the American Cancer Society, more than 54,000 Americans will be diagnosed with oral or oropharyngeal cancer this year, and approximately 10,850 people will die from it. The good news is that oral cancer can be treated successfully if it is caught early. That’s why it’s important to be aware of the risk factors, signs, and symptoms, and to get regular oral cancer screenings.
Several factors can increase your risk of developing oral cancer. These include:
If you have one or more of these risk factors, it’s especially important to be aware of the signs and symptoms of oral cancer.
Oral cancer can present in various ways, and symptoms can include:
If you experience any of these symptoms, make an appointment with your oral and maxillofacial surgeon as soon as possible.
Oral cancer screenings are an important part of your routine dental and medical care. During a screening, your oral and maxillofacial surgeon will examine your mouth, throat, and neck for any signs of cancer. If any abnormalities are found, further testing or a biopsy may be recommended.
It’s recommended that everyone over the age of 18 should receive an oral cancer screening at least once a year. Those with a higher risk of developing oral cancer, such as smokers and heavy drinkers, should be screened more frequently.
At Korb & Taylor, we want to emphasize the importance of oral cancer screenings. Early detection and treatment of oral cancer can make a significant difference in your outcome. If you’re due for a screening or have any concerns about your oral health, please don’t hesitate to contact our office to schedule an appointment. Remember, oral cancer can be treated successfully if it is caught early.
