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Oral Cancer
Oral cancer is a dangerous, yet somewhat preventable, type of cancer.
It kills more people nationwide than either cervical or skin (melanoma)
cancer, and only half of all patients diagnosed will survive more than
five years. The most common risk factors for oral cancer are tobacco
use, frequent high quantity alcohol consumption, constant sunlight exposure,
habitual cheek or lip biting, or poorly fitting dentures. Although 80-90%
of oral cancers are found in people who use tobacco and/or drink alcohol
excessively, 25% of oral cancers occur in people who have no risk factors
at all.
Your dentist could very well be your #1 soldier in the fight against
oral cancer. Statistics show in about 10% of patients, dentists
notice a problem area first. During a regular dental checkup,
your dentist will examine your entire mouth, searching for
a flat, painless, white or red spot or small sore. Other
signs of oral cancer can include:
- A sore that bleeds easily or does not heal
- A color change of the oral tissues
- A lump, thickening, rough spot, crust or small, eroded area
- Pain, tenderness or numbness anywhere in the mouth or on the lips.
We use the latest in medical technology "ViziLite" to screen for oral
cancer. This test can detect potentially dangerous cells when the disease
is still
at an
early
stage.
A scalpel
biopsy,
which requires local anesthesia, is usually performed on suspicious and
dangerous looking areas. Remember to visit your dentist regularly. If
you notice any unusual changes in your mouth, call your dentist immediately.
Together you and your dentist can fight and win the battle against oral
cancer.
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