Oral Cancer ScreeningsApril is oral cancer awareness month1, and we want to participate in raising awareness with our patients. According to the Oral Cancer Foundation, in 2018 approximately 51,550 new cases of oral and oropharyngeal cancer were diagnosed in the United States alone*. At Spokane Dental, we perform oral cancer screenings at every single visit, and take oral cancer detection seriously.

If caught early, oral and oropharyngeal cancer survival rates increase drastically. Unfortunately, these types of cancers have a higher mortality rate because often they are not caught early. This is one of the reasons routine dental visits are so important: each visit the oral tissue is examined by your hygienist and Dr. Smith for any abnormalities in a routine oral cancer screening. It is also important to check your mouth at home, with these simple things to watch for:

  • A sore that does not heal after two weeks.
  • Any growth or lump in your mouth.
  • A painless, fixated lump on your neck that has been present for more than 14 days.

Visiting checkyourmouth.org is also a great way to learn more about abnormalities or signs of cancer to watch for. If you have any questions, make an appointment with us today by calling (509)822-5614.

Oral cancer is serious, but is much easier to treat when diagnosed early. Because we care for our patients, we want to remind you all to check your mouth, call us2 with any concerns right away, and come in for routine check ups. May your best health be before you!

Resources

  1. https://oralcancerfoundation.org/april-oral-cancer-awareness-month/
  2. https://www.spokanedental.com/Contact