While the rates of oral cancer have dropped, health agencies still anticipate that it will be diagnosed in more than 30,000 patients this year. As with many forms of cancer, early detection of oral cancerous lesions can improve the chances of successful treatment.
Use of any kind of tobacco product, particularly when combined with alcohol consumption, has been identified as the major risk factor for oral cancers in the United States.
Regular visits are important in protecting yourself from the effects of oral cancer. As part of your regular dental examination, we will quickly and easily check the oral tissues for signs of cancerous and precancerous lesions. This is all part of our regular dental exam with every cleaning. Detecting and treating cancerous tissues as early as possible is critical for positive outcomes.
Let us also assist you with your smoking cessation and avoid problems before they begin!
Dental care is an important element of overall cancer treatment as your mouth may undergo many changes during the treatment process. We will work together with your physician to maintain the best possible oral health.more
If you will undergo cancer treatment you should:
• Schedule a dental exam and cleaning before cancer treatment begins and periodically during the course of treatment.
• Make us immediately aware of any bleeding gums, or pain, or unusual feeling in the teeth or gums, or any dental infections.
• Update a medical history record with us to include the cancer diagnosis and treatments.
• Maintain excellent oral hygiene to reduce the risk of infection.