10150 Hagen Ranch Road, Suite 200, Boynton Beach, FL 33437
Endodontic Office Boynton Beach

Staying Aware: Detecting Oral Cancer Early

April 30, 2024

Oral cancer is one of the top ten most common types of cancer worldwide, with hundreds of thousands of cases being diagnosed each year. This serious and potentially life-threatening disease underscores the importance of early detection and prevention measures.

Identifying the Risk Factors

While both men and women can be affected by oral cancer, statistics show that men over the age of 50 who are heavy smokers and drink alcohol regularly have a significantly higher risk. Other contributing factors to developing oral cancer include prolonged exposure to UV radiation from the sun or tanning beds, gastrointestinal reflux disease (GERD), a history of head and neck radiation therapy, exposure to certain chemicals, or a poor diet. Additionally, there has been an increase in the incidence of oropharyngeal cancer due to the transmission of human papillomavirus (HPV).

What Your Dentist Can Detect

At Bruce D. Schulman, DDS PA, our skilled, compassionate, and experienced dental team is dedicated to maintaining healthy smiles and overall well-being. During routine checkup visits, we not only assess the health of your teeth and gums but also screen for any signs or symptoms that might indicate the development of oral cancer.

Common Symptoms of Oral Cancer

Stay vigilant! It's essential to recognize that some symptoms of oral cancer can mimic benign lesions that may heal on their own. However, if you notice any of the following signs or symptoms, it's crucial to make an appointment for a timely evaluation and care:

  • Mouth sores or ulcers that don't seem to heal
  • Red or white patches in your mouth or on your lips
  • Unusual lumps or thickened areas within the oral cavity
  • Persistent swelling of unknown origin
  • Pain when swallowing
  • A sore, painful tongue
  • Feeling like something is constantly stuck in your throat
  • Tenderness or numbness in the mouth or lips
  • Loose teeth without any apparent cause
  • Jaw pain or stiffness

While the number of annual cases of oral and oropharyngeal cancers remains high, significant advancements in prevention, early detection, and treatment strategies offer better prognoses and outcomes.

Advanced Technology for Enhanced Care

Awareness is key when it comes to oral cancer. Since many symptoms can mimic benign lesions that may resolve on their own or remain painless, you may be unaware of its presence. At Bruce D. Schulman, DDS PA, we perform routine oral cancer screenings during checkup visits to detect any suspicious tissue changes or unusual growths that might indicate the development of oral cancer. If we find a concerning lesion or tissue abnormality, we will recommend timely biopsy and diagnostic testing as needed.

Taking Charge of Your Oral Health

Regular dental checkups are essential for maintaining optimal oral health. In addition to assessing the overall condition of your teeth and gums, these visits provide an opportunity for us to screen for signs of oral cancer and other serious conditions that may affect your well-being. By staying vigilant and seeking timely care when needed, you can take proactive steps to protect your health and enjoy a beautiful, confident smile.

Don't hesitate to reach out if you have any concerns about your oral health or would like more information about how we can help. Contact us today to schedule an appointment and experience the exceptional care that our dedicated team provides!

About Us

Our goal is to restore the oral health of patients with teeth that have been compromised by injury or decay so that they may once again enjoy the benefits of a healthy and beautiful smile. Our specialty-trained endodontist offers the latest advances in care to save teeth and maintain a complete smile while striving to make every visit a comfortable and stress-free experience.

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