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Current estimates suggest that oral cancer kills one person in America every hour of every day, making the disease a serious health risk that all people should know about. Unfortunately, this type of cancer can be hard to detect at first, increasing the likelihood that it may spread. To help you assess your risk and protect your mouth, here are a few important facts to know about oral cancer and how your dentist can help with diagnosis and treatment.

Who Is at Risk for Oral Cancer?

While any person can develop oral cancer, it is most commonly seen among individuals who use tobacco products—such as cigarettes, pipes, cigars, and chew. This is because tobacco contains a wide range of harmful chemicals, including carcinogens that can increase the risk of oral cancer.

The American Dental Association also recognizes that 70% of oral cancer patients consume a heavy amount of alcohol. When combined with tobacco use, drinking alcohol regularly can dramatically increase your risk of the disease.

Other factors that can’t be changed may also increase a person’s risk of developing oral cancer. For example, the American Cancer Society says that men are twice as likely as women to get the disease. Individuals that are 55 or older or have HPV are also more at risk.

What Are the Signs of Oral Cancer?

dentistCommon signs of oral cancer include red-white lesions in the mouth, persistent mouth pain, and lumps in the neck. Since many of these warning signs can be confused with other conditions, many individuals with oral cancer don’t recognize a potential problem in time to benefit from early diagnosis and treatment. By getting a routine teeth cleaning and oral exam every six months, your dentist can help monitor your oral cancer risk and catch it early.

How Is Oral Cancer Treated?

The best treatment for oral cancer will ultimately depend on the complexity and location of the problem. Initially, surgical procedures may be used to remove cancerous tissues. If the cancer is more advanced, radiation or chemotherapy may also be recommended.

 

If you’re concerned about your oral cancer risk, the professionals at Anchorage Dental Center are equipped to provide in-depth examinations. As oral health specialists, these dentists can identify potential signs of cancer and provide recommendations for further testing. This Anchorage, AK dental office is also equipped to comfortably treat many other issues caused by tobacco use—including staining, tooth infection, and gum disease. Visit this clinic online to learn more about these services or call (907) 278-2521 to schedule a convenient consultation with a friendly family dentist.  

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