The odds are pretty good that you had no idea April is Oral Cancer Awareness Month – you might not have even known that oral cancer exists. But it does, and it is a good thing to be aware of – early detection can make all the difference when fighting this disease. Your dentist knows what to look for when it comes to oral cancer, but do you? Here are some things you should know about oral cancer.

Oral Cancer Facts

There are about 53,000 new cases of oral cancer each year. Oral cancer is cancer that occurs on your tongue, lips, gums, or anywhere in your mouth. If you notice anything unusual in your mouth or on your lips, you should make an appointment with your doctor or dentist right away.

Oral cancer can look like:

• A growth or lump
• A sore that doesn’t get better
• A white or red patch
• Swelling in the jaw or gums

There are other symptoms of oral cancer that may be mistaken for something else, such as enlarged lymph nodes, ear pain, numbness in the face or tongue, loose teeth, difficulty or pain when swallowing, a chronic sore throat or hoarseness, and dramatic weight loss.

Your risk for oral cancer increases as you age; it is most often found in people over the age of 40. If you use tobacco of any kind or drink alcohol excessively your risk increases, and even more so if you do both. If you have a family history of cancer, this increases your risk as well.

What Can You Do To Prevent Oral Cancer?

You can’t do much about your age or your genes, but there are some lifestyle changes you can make to prevent oral cancer. Make sure to wear sunscreen every time you go outside (there are lip balms available that offer sun protection); eat a healthy diet; stop smoking; and don’t drink excessively.

Your dentist will check for any signs of oral cancer when you go for your cleanings and exams – but don’t wait for your next appointment if you see something unusual. Contact Bentz Dental Implant & Prosthodontic Center in East Norriton, PA, at (610) 272-6949 for an appointment!