Oral Cancer: Early Diagnosis Makes A Big Difference

When it comes to oral cancer statistics, two numbers are key: 40% and 90%.

40% of individuals who receive a late-stage diagnosis die within five years. However, the survival rate for early stage diagnosis is 90%.

Oral Cavity and Oropharynx—Mouth and Throat

Cancers that begin in the mouth (or oral cavity) are termed oral cancers. The oral cavity consists of the inside tissue of the mouth and cheeks, the lips, the tissue below the tongue, the roof of the mouth, and the front two-thirds of the tongue. “Why only two-thirds of the tongue?” you might ask. Because the back third of the tongue is considered part of the throat. Throat cancers, or oropharyngeal cancers, start in the oropharynx, the part of the mouth behind the parts considered part of the oral cavity. The oropharynx consists of the soft palate, the tonsils, and the throat.

How Are Oral Cancers Diagnosed?

Some oral cancers cause symptoms which prompt the patient to see a doctor and others are discovered by dentists and doctors during exams. Thousands of lives could be saved every year if more men and women received regular screenings.

A visual oral cancer exam is relatively quick and convenient, especially as compared to other cancer screening tests such as colonoscopies and mammograms. If an abnormality is discovered during an exam, the patient is referred to an appropriate specialist for further testing and diagnosis.

Be proactive. Ask your dentist or doctor to complete an oral cancer screening during each exam or physical. If you have one or more risk factors, it’s important to speak with your health care provider for advice on oral cancer screenings and prevention.

Oral Cancer Risk Factors

• Tobacco use (cigarettes, chewing tobacco, or snuff)
• Heavy drinking
• Unhealthy diet
• HPV infection
• Weak immune system
• Frequent exposure to UV light (a risk factor for cancers of the lips)

To schedule a dental oral cancer exam and checkup, I invite you to call 702-852-2829.

Sources:
http://www.dentistrytoday.com/news/todays-dental-news/item/1882-awareness-is-the-key-to-fighting-oral-cancer#sthash.HhX8jCtf.dpuf
https://www.cancer.org/cancer/oral-cavity-and-oropharyngeal-cancer/about/what-is-oral-cavity-cancer.html

 

Contact Summer Dental – Kids|Adults|Braces:

702-852-2829

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10965 Lavender Hill Dr., #120
Las Vegas, Nevada
89135