Experts estimate that 54,000 Americans will be diagnosed with oral cancer in 2021. Since April is Oral Cancer Awareness month, we are sharing some tips to help you fight back against this disease.
Stay Away From Tobacco
Tobacco use is the most common risk factor for oral cancer. If you are using tobacco now, please check into programs that can help you quit. Keep avoiding it ff you don’t use tobacco.
Schedule Regular Dental Visits
Your checkups at our office include an oral cancer screening by our dental professionals. We cannot treat or diagnose this condition, but we do recognize the warning signs. We want you to know as soon as possible if we notice anything suspicious. Early detection can make a big difference in your treatment.
Check Yourself
A lot can happen between your routine appointments with us. By conducting a monthly self-examination, you can find symptoms such as:
- Feeling like something is constantly stuck in your throat
- Trouble opening and closing your mouth
- Difficulty eating or swallowing
- Unusual swelling on your face or neck
- Lumps or bumps on the soft tissues of your mouth
- Patches of white, red, or speckled tissue in your mouth
Call (843) 588-1919 today or contact us online to request an appointment at Advanced Dental Center in Florence, SC. Keep your smile for life by visiting us!