Oral Cancer is statistically one of the most deadly cancers due to late diagnosis. When caught in the later stages, oral cancer patients have less chance at receiving effective treatment. April is Oral Cancer Awareness month as sponsored by various health organizations and the American Dental Association (ADA) in an effort to shed a brighter light on this often deadly disease affecting thousands each year.
Dr. Rajeev Upadya provides patients with an oral cancer screening during every routine visits to our East Hanover, NJ dentist office. This quick, painless exam lasts about two minutes. Frequent oral cancer screenings lead to early diagnosis for effective and conservative treatment. Oral cancer screenings are so simple that many patients do not even realize that they are being screened.
Know The Signs of Oral Cancer
Staying alert of any changes in the soft tissues of your oral cavity can help lead to early diagnosis as well. If you notice any of the following symptoms be sure to visit Dr. Upadya as soon as possible. It is important to remember that even if you self screen, professional exams are necessary as oral cancer can often hide where you can not see it yourself. If you notice any of the following symptoms that persist for several weeks, call Metropolitan Center for Complete Dentistry.
- Sore throat or feeling of something caught in the throat
- Thickening of soft oral tissues
- Noticeable red or white patches in the mouth
- Numbness of the tongue
- Swelling in the jaw area
- Change in the fit of dentures
- Difficulty swallowing
Early treatment helps patients avoid the development of more complex oral health concerns and help allow for effective treatment. Routine dental care not only keeps your smile healthy but can also provide the opportunity to spot early signs of larger health concerns such as oral cancer. As your dentist, we consider ourselves a partner in your overall health care, helping you to enjoy the best quality of life every day.