For many, oral cancer does not even truly show up on their radar and, this could potentially be harmful to you and your loved ones, as it has been estimated that approximately 36,000 Americans are diagnosed each year and of those 8,000 will die.
Unfortunately, those numbers are quite high and it is mainly due to the fact that in many, many cases, the diagnosis was made in the advanced stages of the cancer. In fact, the total number of deaths, from oral cancer never really seems to decrease because it is rarely diagnosed in its early stages.
It is, therefore, crucial that everyone be screened, on a regular basis, for oral cancer and your dentist can be your best ally.
Scheduling at least two dental visits each year for your regular check ups and cleanings can be the perfect time to ask your dentist to thoroughly check the inside of your mouth for any signs and/or symptoms that may be developing.
Your dentist can quickly and efficiently do a thorough exam to make sure that your gums, tongue and mouth are free of sores and masses and it is entirely pain free. Your dentist truly can be one of your greatest allies in the fight against disease – so don’t hesitate to talk with him/her about your concerns and your needs.
Don’t forget that eating a balanced diet, staying away from tobacco (especially chewing tobacco) and alcohol will also go a long way in keeping you healthy and happy.
