Why it is Crucial to Detect Oral Cancer Before It’s Too Late

You probably already know that visiting your SE Calgary Family Dentist every six months for a dental checkup and cleaning can help you reap the full benefits of Preventive Dentistry. 

But did you know that your regular dental visit can be life-saving?

How? You may ask. Well, the technological advancements associated with dentistry now allow us to detect issues such as oral cancer even in its early stage. By doing so, treatment can be easier, more effective, faster, and cheaper. 

What you need to know about Oral Cancer

Oral cancer is the rapid growth of cells that mutate, invade, and damage surrounding tissue. It can be found on the lips, cheeks, tongue, floor, and roof of the mouth, sinuses, and throat. When oral cancer is visible to the naked eye, it usually appears as swelling, bumps, rough spots, or red and white patches. You may also notice difficulty swallowing, numbness of the face, mouth, or neck, and unexplained bleeding in the mouth.

Usually, by the time symptoms are visible to the naked eye, the cancer is already in its late stages. So, you must visit your dentist often, ask about oral cancer screenings, and keep an eye out for any abnormalities.

Who is considered at high risk for oral cancer?

According to the World Health Organization, the number of new oral cancer cases grows yearly and is currently one of the most prevalent cancers worldwide. Data reports that incidence rates for oral cancer are higher in men than women.

Furthermore, tobacco use, including smokeless tobacco and excessive alcohol consumption, is considered the most prominent risk factor in oral cancer. Aside from that, excessive sun exposure can leave unprotected lips at risk for spreading cancer throughout the mouth.

Lastly, family history of cancer or related disease are also determined to increase oral cancer risk factors.

Oral cancer is preventable and curable

With early detection, the survival rate for oral cancer is very high.

Therefore, it is essential to regularly visit your SE Calgary Family Dentist for routine checkups and cleanings, and oral cancer screenings. If you have questions and clarifications about oral cancer screening, feel free to call your trusted Forest Lane dentist at (403) 248-2280. We look forward to seeing you at your next appointment!