While prioritizing physical and mental well being, people often forget to pay attention to their oral or dental health. There are many who think dental work is more of cosmetic, however, it is important to understand the real mouth-body connection for overall well being. Oral health is the door into your overall health. Neglecting your mouth’s health can be fatal and this is something, right from dentists to patients needs to know right now.

Oral Cancer Awareness month has just passed and it is expected that more than 50,000 people will be diagnosed with oral cancer this year, seniors being more at risk.

What Is Oral Cancer
Oral cancer is the cancer occurring in the oral cavity, be it floor area of the mouth, cheeks, teeth, gum or lips. The other affected areas are middle region of throat and back of the mouth.

Signs of Oral Cancer
If you are experiencing any of the following symptoms, consult our dentist for screening now:

1. Soreness
2. Difficulty in jaw movement
3. Numbness
4. Trouble in swallowing
5. A thick patch of skin
6. Irritation

Senior citizens who are diagnosed with oral cancer are aged 55 and above.

There are factors like irritation from poorly fitted dentures, consistent use of tobacco and smoke and family history that multiplies the risk. However, patients can greatly reduce the risk by early detection. Also, control over lifestyle habits and regular visit to the dentist would solve the purpose.

How Is Oral Cancer Screening Done
Oral cancer screening does not require special preparation and is performed during a regular dental appointment. During the screening session, our dentist will look inside your mouth to hunt for sores or red patches of tissue.

They will touch and inspect the lymph nodes in neck and jaw, around ears, salivary glands. They will also look for signs of swelling if any.

Examination of tonsil is yet another step. Our dentist uses a dental mirror to look for redness, enlargement or unusual bumps.

Book Appointment to find out which treatment might be best for you.