Oral cancer accounts for about 3% off all cancers diagnosed in the U.S. every year, it is largely preventable. An oral cancer screening is performed at each of your hygiene visits. A thorough examination of your tissues, especially those most likely to develop oral cancer will be looked at. These tissues include: lips, cheeks, jaw, roof of the mouth, side and bottom of the tongue, and throat. Many types of Human Papilloma Virus (HPV) can lead to cancer of the oral cavity and oropharynx (throat). There are vaccines available to prevent HPV. Other risk factors for oral cancer include tobacco and alcohol use. Signs and Symptoms of Oral Cancer: If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, make sure to address the issue with Dr. Bomstad during your exam. … [Read more...]
April is Oral Cancer Awareness Month
Nearly 50,000 people are diagnosed with oral cancer every year, which makes oral cancer screenings essential. At Bomstad Dental, your hygienist performs a cancer check every time you visit her. Another reason why it is so important to have regular dental check ups. Some of the risk factors for oral cancer include, but are not limited to; Tobacco and alcohol use Age-most oral cancer is diagnosed in people over 40 Diet-a poor diet low in fruits and vegetables impacts your risk of oral cancer HPV-this is a sexually transmitted disease known at the human papillomavirus and it has been linked to oral cancers, especially in younger individuals (an HPV vaccine is now available) Some symptoms indicating you could have oral cancer include; A lump, irritated area or a sore Difficulty chewing or swallowing or a change in speech A red or white patch, mostly on the tongue or floor of the mouth A feeling of numbness on the tongue or other area of your mouth … [Read more...]