April is Oral Cancer Awareness Month. Approximately 50,000 people in the United States are diagnosed with oral cancer each year. The dentists at Tkatch Dentistry in High Point, NC, want to advocate knowledge, prevention, and early detection. Their top priority is the oral health of their patients; in fact, they offer free oral cancer screenings with every dental cleaning.

What Is Oral Cancer?

Oral cancer comprises cancers of the cheeks, lips, tongue, hard and soft palate, sinuses, and throat. Often, it will present itself as a persistent growth or sore inside of the mouth that won’t disappear. Other symptoms include:

• White or red patches inside the mouth
• Swelling, lumps, or rough spots on the lips or inside the mouth
• Inexplicable numbness or pain located within any area of the neck, face, mouth, or ears 
• Unexplained bleeding from any part of the mouth
• A feeling something is caught in the back of your throat, or difficulty swallowing
• Trouble chewing or moving the jaw
• Chronic sore throat, changes in voice, hoarseness, or scratchiness
• Significant, unexplained weight loss

What Causes Oral Cancer?

As with most cancers, there are several risk factors for oral cancer. These include cigarette smoking, chewing tobacco use, excessive alcohol consumption, extreme sun exposure, family history of cancer, and human papillomavirus. A diet low in fruit and vegetables can also be a contributing factor. Men are twice as likely to develop oral cancer as women.

Early detection is key to successful treatment and survival. Oral cancer’s mortality rate is high because the cancer is often diagnosed late in its progression. Fortunately, you can take a proactive role by visiting your dentist regularly.

The dedicated team at Tkatch Dentistry is passionate about preventative care and education to achieve exceptional dental health for every patient. As true family dentists, they offer general, restorative, and cosmetic dentistry services. Call (336) 889-9916 to schedule your cleaning and oral cancer screening, or visit the website for additional information.