April Is Oral Cancer Awareness Month
Oral cancer refers to cancer that develops in any of the parts that make up the mouth. Oral cancer is one of several types of cancer grouped in a category called head and neck cancers. Mouth cancer and other head and neck cancers are often treated similarly. The American Cancer Society recommends oral cancer screening exams every 3 years for persons over age 20 and annually for those over age 40. If you notice any of the below changes, contact your dentist or health care professional immediately:
- Swellings/thickenings, lumps or bumps, rough spots/crusts/or eroded areas on the lips, gums, or other areas inside the mouth
- The development of velvety white, red, or speckled (white and red) patches in the mouth
- Unexplained bleeding in the mouth
- Unexplained numbness, loss of feeling, or pain/tenderness in any area of the face, mouth, or neck
- Persistent sores on the face, neck, or mouth that bleed easily and do not heal within 2 weeks
- A soreness or feeling that something is caught in the back of the throat
- Difficulty chewing or swallowing, speaking, or moving the jaw or tongue
- Hoarseness, chronic sore throat, or change in voice
- Ear pain
- A change in the way your teeth or dentures fit together
- Dramatic weight loss
Your dentist may perform an oral brush biopsy if tissue in your mouth looks suspicious. This test is painless and involves taking a small sample of the tissue and analyzing it for abnormal cells. Alternatively, if the tissue looks more suspicious, your dentist may recommend a scalpel biopsy. This procedure usually requires local anesthesia and may be performed by your dentist or a specialist. These tests are necessary to detect oral cancer early, and early detection can improve the chance of successful treatment.
To learn more about oral cancer screenings, please contact Dr Alhadef at 214-368-2434 to schedule a consultation or visit our website at www.dallascosmeticdental.com.
Dr. Gary Alhadef, DDS proudly serves Dallas and all surrounding areas.