Don’t wait until April, Get Your Oral Cancer Screening Today!

During April oral health professionals and those affected by oral cancer work diligently to advocate for education and prevention; as its Oral Cancer Awareness Month. Although this month is especially important in educating individuals on what oral cancer looks like and the available preventative steps that can lower risk, it’s vital that people monitor their oral health year-round.

Oral cancer can affect anyone, making it critical that you know what warning signs and symptoms point to the early stages of various types of oral cancer.

Oral Cancer Screening: Are There Detectable Early Signs of Oral Cancer?

There are a variety of different warning signs and early-stage symptoms associated with oral cancer. However, it’s important to note that oral cancer is a broad term for a wider range of cancer that occurs in the mouth. The common types of oral cancer include:

•      Sinus cancer
•      Throat cancer
•      Lip cancer
•      Tongue cancer
•      Cancer in the cheeks
•      Cancer in the hard and soft palates of the mouth

With regular oral cancer screening appointments, there are significant symptoms of oral cancer that can be detected by your oral health professional.

These warning signs and symptoms include:

•      Oral bleeding in any area of the mouth.
•      Irregular bumps or rough patches on the lips or inside the oral cavity.
•      A loss of sensation or persistent numbness on the tongue, neck, face, or mouth.
•      Difficulty chewing, swallowing, talking, or moving the jaw in any fashion.
•      A recurring sore throat.
•      Patches or areas of the mouth that are discolored.

Oral Cancer Screening: What Causes Oral Cancer?

Education is key and we like to take advantage of the additional emphasis that April has to focus on Oral Cancer Awareness Month, so let’s discuss the causes. There are many reasons that oral cancer can develop in a person, but there are some factors that can increase your risk of developing oral cancer. Along with many other harmful diseases, tobacco use can negatively impact your health, including in your mouth. Regular and heavy alcohol consumption is another factor associated with an increased risk of oral cancer.

Poor diet, HIV infection, UV rays, and poor oral hygiene also negatively impact your health and increase your risk of developing oral cancer.

Oral Cancer Screening: What Can Be Done to Prevent Oral Cancer?

Your best bet in catching oral cancer during its early stages is with a regular oral cancer screening performed by a trusted oral health professional, like Dr. Gary Skrobanek and his expert team at GPS Dental in San Antonio. They have the knowledge and experience to identify potential symptoms of various types of oral cancer and can connect you with the medical services you need.

Related Article: Oral Cancer Screening – You Need to Know!

In addition to an oral cancer screening during each of your dental appointments from Dr. Skrobanek, you can complete self-directed oral inspections. Inspect your mouth monthly for the warning signs listed above. For a more complete and thorough inspection, you can use a small light and mirror to see otherwise blocked areas. Upon finding anything suspicious, immediately contact your oral health professional.

Related Article: Why We Perform Oral Cancer Screenings during Dental Checkups

Dentists and doctors alike will also recommend that people cut out tobacco use completely, as it is known to impact your overall health negatively. At GPS Dental, we’re dedicated to helping our patients maintain a healthy mouth and a healthy life. To schedule your oral cancer screening, contact us today.

Dr. Gary P. Skrobanek is a dental implant dentist and his experienced, friendly team at GPS Dental offer affordable family dentistry and gentle dental care in the San Antonio, TX area. Our Brooks City Base dentist office is conveniently located and offers early morning appointment times Monday through Friday to meet your needs. At GPS Dental, we provide most dental services, from family and general dentistry to dental implants, sleep apnea, TMJ / TMD Treatment, cosmetic dentistry and much more. We accept most dental insurance plans and offer affordable financial solutions for any budget. Call us at (210) 633-3477 to make an appointment.