In the United States alone, one adult dies every hour from oral cancers. When oral cancers are identified in initial stages, treatment can begin more quickly. In initial stages, treatment has a higher rate of success and is less invasive. In more advanced stages, oral cancers are more likely to have spread to other areas and need complex treatment.

Drs. Duskin & Holmes recommend having an oral cancer screening at least once each year. Regular screenings can help ensure early detection of any potential cancers.

During your oral cancer screening, Drs. Duskin & Holmes will check for any abnormalities. We will closely examine your mouth, throat, lips, gums, and tongue. Let us know about any potential symptoms you have experienced, including:

• Pain or difficulty with speaking, swallowing, or moving your jaw or tongue
• A sensation that something is caught in the back of your throat
• Sore throat with no other sinus symptoms
• Lumps or swellings in or around your mouth
• Drastic weight loss
• White or red patches in your mouth
• Mouth sores that do not heal
• Unexplained ear pain
• Unexplained bleeding in your mouth

If you have experienced any of these symptoms for more than a week without improvement, call us immediately for an appointment.

Anyone may develop oral cancer, but there are certain factors that can increase your risks. Some of the most common include:

• Being male (men are more likely to develop oral cancer than women)
• Use of tobacco in any form (6 times more likely)
• Genetic predisposition for oral cancers
• Excessive or prolonged exposure to sun
• Unhealthy diet
• Excessive consumption of alcoholic beverages
• Having gastro-esophageal reflux disease (GERD)

For more information on oral cancer screenings or to schedule an appointment, contact Eagle Family Dental.