What you should know about oral cancer
Oral cancer is a disease that kills more people nationwide than either melanoma (skin cancer) or cervical cancer. Only half of all patients diagnosed with oral cancer survive more than five years.

However, the good news about oral cancer is that it is now easier than ever to detect it early - when the opportunity for a cure is great.

• Often starts as a tiny, unnoticed, white or red spot or sore anywhere in the mouth
• Occurs most often in those who use tobacco in any form and those who consume large amounts of alcohol
• However—more than 25% of oral cancers occur in people who do not smoke and have no other risk factors

The importance
of regular checkups
Regular dental checkups, which include an examination of the entire mouth, are essential in the early detection of both cancerous and precancerous conditions. A person may have a dangerous oral spot and not be aware of it.

Harmful oral spots or sores often look identical to those that are harmless - testing can tell them apart

• If your dentist notices a sore with a likely cause, your dentist may treat it and ask you to return for reexamination
• The dentist will often notice a spot or sore that looks harmless and does not have a clear cause. To ensure that a spot or sore is not dangerous, your dentist may choose to perform a simple test, such as a brush biopsy, which usually is painless and can detect potentially dangerous cells when the disease is still at an early stage
• If your dentist notices something that looks very suspicious and dangerous, a scalpel biopsy may be recommended. This usually requires local anesthesia. Your general dentist may perform this procedure or refer you to a specialist for it

Protect yourself, see your dentist regularly

You and your dentist can fight the battle against oral cancer, a disease whose prognosis has remained unchanged for decades. Your dentist has the skills and tools to ensure that cancer and precancerous conditions are identified. It is important to see your dentist regularly so that any oral spot or sore can be promptly evaluated.

Many oral lesions are flat, very small, or in an area of your mouth that you cannot see. They can often only be detected during a periodic oral examination by your dentist.

Make an appointment today!