Last year, approximately 48,000 new cases of oral and throat cancer were diagnosed in the United States. Because dental checkups involve a close look at oral tissues, dentists are often the first to spot oral cancer, which may first appear as red or white patches or sores that do not heal on the tongue, insides of the cheeks, floor of the mouth, hard and soft palates, and elsewhere in the mouth and throat. It is crucial these signs be detected early with regular dental checkups and oral monitoring. Otherwise, mouth and throat cancers tend to be diagnosed when the disease is more advanced, leading to a five-year survival rate of only 63%. Symptoms should be brought to the dentist’s attention.
Biannual dental visits are important because the dentist checks for oral cancer, the early signs of gum disease, and other potentially serious problems that can only be detected during the dental visit. To schedule an appointment, please call West Brookfield Dental at 508-867-2777. At your first visit, we will review your medical history and x-rays and perform a thorough examination, checking for tooth decay, gum disease, and oral cancer. We are located at 9 West Main St., West Brookfield.
P.S. Symptoms of oral cancer include loose teeth for no apparent reason, a painful tongue, a lump or thickening of the skin or lining of the mouth, a sensation that something is stuck in the throat, and persistent swelling.
