Would you be surprised to learn that many dentists include an oral cancer screening as a standard aspect of routine checkups? You might think this is unnecessary, but it’s important to catch this condition as early as possible to help improve patients’ prognoses.
It’s natural to question why your provider is checking the soft tissues of your mouth for signs of such a serious condition. Continue reading to learn 3 fascinating facts about it that you might not know, to help you understand the value of proper prevention!
Fact #1: There Are Different Types
When you think of ‘oral cancer’, you might assume that this refers to a single disease, but there are actually two main types. They are:
- Oral cavity cancer. This refers to a condition that develops in the front part of your mouth, which might be on the tongue, the floor of your mouth, or inside the cheeks and lips. Using tobacco products is a major risk factor for developing these issues. This type is often quite aggressive and difficult to treat, especially if it has progressed past a certain point.
- Oropharyngeal cancer. This kind of cancer impacts structures in the back of your mouth or throat, like your upper throat, larynx, back of the tongue, and tonsils. It’s often due to HPV, a sexually transmitted virus, but can also be influenced by alcohol and tobacco use. This generally responds better to currently available treatments.
Fact #2: It’s Often Severe
If you’re convinced that you would surely notice if you had developed a condition as serious as oral cancer, think again. It often doesn’t exhibit noticeable signs until it has already begun progressing to more dangerous stages that are harder to treat. In fact, sources estimate that approximately 58,500 Americans are diagnosed annually, and only slightly more than half of those are likely to still be alive after five years. This makes it the sixth leading cause of cancer deaths in the U.S.
Unfortunately, surgeries and other treatments required to address this condition in its later stages can be traumatic. They sometimes require the removal of certain parts or tissues, leading to disfigurements or difficulties speaking or swallowing.
Fact #3: It Can Be Treated Early
As intimidated as you might feel by the statistics listed above, there’s some good news, too. If oral cancer is caught early enough, there’s a chance it can be treated successfully. You should pay attention to your dental condition so that you notice any changes and can get help quickly.
For example, you might have an issue if you notice a flat white or red patch somewhere in your mouth, have a lip or mouth sore, feel hoarse consistently, struggle to swallow, or feel a growth or lump inside your neck or mouth.
You should also visit your dentist every six months for a checkup so they can monitor your oral health to treat any areas of concern, like swollen gums or thinning enamel, before it gets worse.
Meet the Author
Dr. Teresa Knott has 20 years of experience helping people enhance their daily lives by improving their dental well-being. She earned her dental degree from the University of Texas Health Science Center in San Antonio, and is committed to continuing her education with prestigious programs, such as SPEAR Education. Today, she offers a comprehensive menu of services, including routine checkups, to avoid serious concerns like oral cancer. You can request an appointment on the website or call (972) 530-5200.