April is a significant month for us here at Blue Ocean Dentistry in Glendora, California. It’s Oral Cancer Awareness Month, a time when the dental community and the public come together to shine a light on the importance of oral health and the risks associated with oral cancer. As your local dental care provider, we are deeply committed to raising awareness about this disease and its prevention.
Oral Cancer Check-Ups
Oral cancer is a serious condition that affects millions of people worldwide. It can develop in any part of the mouth, including the lips, tongue, gums, and throat. Early detection is crucial for successful treatment, which is why regular dental check-ups are so important. During your routine visits, our team performs thorough screenings to detect any signs of abnormalities or suspicious lesions.
Advanced Oral Cancer Signs
One of the biggest challenges is that it can often go unnoticed in its early stages. Many patients may not experience any symptoms until the disease has progressed to a more advanced stage. That’s why awareness and education are key. By knowing the risk factors and symptoms associated with oral cancer, you can take proactive steps to protect yourself and your loved ones.
Oral Cancer & Tobacco Use
Some of the common risk factors include tobacco use, excessive alcohol consumption, sun exposure (for lip cancer), a family history of oral cancer, and certain strains of the human papillomavirus (HPV). While these risk factors can increase your chances of developing oral cancer, it’s essential to remember that anyone can be affected, regardless of their lifestyle or habits.
Symptoms
Symptoms may include persistent mouth sores that don’t heal, red or white patches in the mouth, lumps or thickening of the oral tissues, difficulty chewing or swallowing, chronic sore throat or hoarseness, and unexplained weight loss. If you experience any of these symptoms for more than two weeks, it’s important to schedule an appointment with us for a thorough evaluation.
Prevention is always better than treatment when it comes to oral cancer. Here are some steps you can take to reduce your risk:
Quit Smoking
Tobacco use is one of the most significant risk factors for oral cancer. By quitting smoking or using smokeless tobacco products, you can significantly lower your risk.
Limit Alcohol Consumption
Excessive alcohol consumption can also increase your risk of developing the disease. If you choose to drink alcohol, do so in moderation.
Maintain Good Oral Hygiene
Brushing and flossing daily, along with regular dental check-ups, can help detect any oral health issues early on, including oral cancer.
Get Vaccinated
The HPV vaccine can protect against certain strains of the virus that are linked. Talk to your doctor about whether the vaccine is right for you or your children.
By taking these simple steps and staying vigilant about your oral health, you can reduce your risk of developing oral cancer and enjoy a lifetime of healthy smiles. Remember, early detection saves lives, so don’t hesitate to reach out to us if you have any concerns. Together, we can make a difference in the fight against oral cancer.
About Dr. Fred Wong of Blue Ocean Dentistry in Glendora, California
Dr. Fred Wong and the staff at Blue Ocean Dentistry use the latest available dental treatments, and materials. Everything we use makes a marked difference in our patients’ experiences. We help our patients achieve optimal dental health. We creatively combine dental science and artistry — which can literally redesign your smile. Since even a subtle change in your smile will help you to project self-confidence and high self-esteem, we love helping you feel good about yourself. We deliver the finest dental care at the most reasonable cost and accept most dental insurance plans as well as CareCredit. For more about the dental treatment plans we offer or to schedule an appointment, call today (626) 852-6999