Comprehensive Dental Care
Oral Cancer SYmptoms checked at your dentist.
Know the symptoms of Oral cancer. Check problems with your dentist.

Everyone knows our best defense for cancer is finding it early. The American Dental Association, headquartered in Chicago, Illinois,  recently printed this article about oral cancer and your dentist I thought it was worth sharing…

Ororpharyngeal cancer (oral cancer) can affect any area of the oral cavity including the lips, gum tissue, check lining, tongue, jaw the hard or soft palate and throat. It often starts as a tiny, unnoticed white or red spot or sore or swelling anywhere in the mouth or throat.

During your dental visit, your dentist (that would be us) can talk to you about your health history and examine these areas for signs of mouth and/or throat cancer. Regular visits to your dentist can improve the chances that any suspicious changes in your oral health will be caught early, at a time when cancer can be treated more easily.  Cancer outcomes are better the earlier the cancer is found.  Do not procrastinate.  Visit your dentist if you have any symptoms.

The symptoms of mouth or throat cancer can include:

sores that bleed easily or do not heal
a thick or hard spot or lump
a roughened or crusted area
numbness, pain or tenderness
a change in the way your teeth fit together when you bite down.

Make sure to tell your dentist about any problems you have when chewing, swallowing, speaking or moving your tongue or jaw. Regular dental check-ups, including an examination of the entire mouth by your dentist and hygienist, are essential in the early detection of cancerous and pre-cancerous conditions.  Be vigilant in getting health issues check out.

If you have any questions about Oral cancer, feel free to call or come in to talk to your dentist, Dr. Hendrickson or Dr. Le. ((702) 735-3284)