April is Oral Cancer Awareness Month in the United States. At Mint Dental, we spend time this month shining a spotlight on this serious and often overlooked health issue that affects tens of thousands of people each year. Early detection of oral cancer greatly increases the chances of successful treatment, yet many cases go unnoticed until advanced stages due to a lack of awareness and regular screenings.
This month serves as a crucial reminder for individuals to schedule oral cancer screenings. Our goal is to educate patients, promote preventative care, and potentially save lives through early intervention.
Quick Facts About Oral Cancer In The U.S.
- Oral cancer is strongly associated with tobacco usage, including classic cigarettes, cigars, and chewing tobacco
- The HPV virus is a leading cause of oropharyngeal cancer (cancer at the back of the throat)
- Alcohol consumption can increase the risk of oral cancer
- 54,000 Americans get oral cancer every year
- Oral cancer is more common among men than women
- Oral cancer is most likely to occur after age 40
Early Symptoms Of Oral Cancer
Knowing the early signs of oral cancer can be vital to your health. Going to the dentist as soon as symptoms emerge makes treatment more effective.
The most common signs are:
- Mouth ulcers or sores that don’t go away within a few weeks
- Erythroplakia and leukoplakia (white and red patches) on the tongue or lips
- Any swellings or lumps in the mouth, on the lips, or in the neck area
- Pain when speaking or swallowing
- Hoaseness in the voice
If you notice these signs or anything unusual about your head or throat, contact our team so we can check for signs of oral cancer to put your mind at ease.
We recommend that our patients schedule regular visits at our clinic every six months or so. These appointments are essential for detection and treatment in the unlikely event you have oral cancer.
How To Prevent Oral Cancer
Researchers believe oral cancer is highly preventable. However, reducing risk requires adopting the right lifestyle strategies.
- Don’t Smoke Or Use Tobacco The top way to prevent oral cancer is to avoid smoking or chewing tobacco. Cutting your consumption can reduce risks substantially by reducing tissue exposure to harmful, mutagenic chemicals.
- Get An HPV Vaccination Next, consider an HPV vaccination. This prevents HPV infections that can sometimes lead to oral cancer.
- Reduce Alcohol Consumption Reducing your alcohol consumption can also be highly effective. People who drink moderately or not at all tend to have a lower overall risk of developing oral cancer.
- Wear Sun Protection On Your Lips UV from the sun can damage the lips and lead to cancer. Therefore, wear sun protection on your lips, such as SPF lip balms with high protection levels.
- Brush Your Teeth Well Finally, ensure you brush and floss your teeth regularly. Poor oral hygiene can reduce the risk of sores and keep the mouth healthy.
Book An Exam And Cleaning This Spring
At The Mint Dental, we don’t think oral cancer is worth the risk. We encourage you to book a dental cleaning with us this spring, where we’ll freshen your teeth and perform a routine oral cancer screening, giving you peace of mind alongside your regular treatment.
