The American Cancer Society reports more than 30,000 cases of oral cancer diagnoses per year. Of these, more than 7,000 patients die. However, when oral cancer is detected in its early stages, it can be effectively treated and cured.
Oral cancer comes in a variety of histologic types including melanoma, adenocarcinoma, and teratoma. The most common type is malignant squamous cell carcinoma which usually originates in the mouth and lip tissue. In general, oral cancer is a pathologic process with an asymptomatic stage in which the usual cancer symptoms are not easily noticeable.
For this reason, oral cancer exams are incredibly important. They are quick, painless exams that should be conducted at least once per year by your dentist.
About 75% of oral cancers are linked to tobacco use, smoking, and excessive alcohol consumption. These are modifiable behaviors that you can control in your life. For more information on the causes of oral cancer, your dentist in Brooklyn, NY can provide you with education and literature on smoking cessation and other lifestyle choices you can make to improve your health and prevent oral cancer.
Oral cancer commonly occurs in many areas of the mouth including the gums, lips, salivary glands, mouth, tongue, and oropharyngeal region (throat). It can even occur on the face. During your oral cancer exam, your Crown Heights dentist will check each of these areas for pathologic symptoms using visual tools, gentle examination, and dental lasers.
Dental lasers are an amazing tool that your dentist can use to see below the surface, allowing them to discover unusual signs or lesions that the invisible eye could not see.
Schedule your oral cancer examinations at least once per year to prevent the formation of pathologic conditions and the spreading of cancer. Our dentist, Dr. Shahin, and our dental hygienists want to make sure you live cancer-free and maintain exceptional oral health throughout your life.
To set up an oral cancer screening or to ask questions about oral cancer in Brooklyn, contact Brooklyn Dentist. We provide dental services for patients in Fort Greene, Park Slope, Brooklyn Heights, and Crown Heights.