ORAL CANCER DOESN’T GET QUITE THE “PRESS” that other types of cancer seem to get, but the numbers are significant. In the United States alone, over 35,000 people are diagnosed with oral cancer every year, and though early detection does boost the survival rate to around 80–90%, most cases aren’t diagnosed until the cancer has progressed.
So, why is it that oral cancer so often goes undetected? One of the biggest reasons is that a lot of the symptoms aren’t painful so people just don’t know they have it. Unfortunately, detecting oral cancer in its later stages significantly reduces the survival rates.
According to the Oral Cancer Foundation, if you are experiencing any of the following symptoms, you should have Dr. Falter take a look:
- A sore inside your mouth that doesn’t go away within two weeks
- A lump or thickening on your cheek
- A red or white patch on any part of your inner mouth
- Difficulty swallowing or chewing without pain
- Difficulty moving your jaw or tongue
- Numbness inside your mouth
- Swelling of the jaw
Although these symptoms could also be caused by other things, having them checked by Dr. Falter will help you feel at ease concerning the cause.
Well, it goes without saying—the best offense is a great defense…so keep those regularly scheduled cleaning appointments and screenings. Doing so will GREATLY increase the chances that any problems you may have will be detected early. It’s absolutely worth it.
As your trusted, lifelong oral health partner, we want to keep you and your loved ones as healthy as possible. Let us know if you have any other questions about oral cancer or any of the symptoms mentioned above. And feel free to visit our Facebook Page! Staying informed helps us all stay healthier.
