Oral Cancer, also diagnosed as pharyngeal cancer, causes more than 8,000 deaths a year. Surprising that such a small part of the body can cause such severe consequences, isn’t it?
Oral cancer is most commonly diagnosed in its later stages. It has little to minimal symptoms at its early stages, making it less detectible at that time. While symptoms of oral cancer are mild, The Oral Cancer Foundation recommends some common oral observations that should trigger the need for an oral checkup:
- Open sores or legions that do not heal in less than two weeks
- White or red patches on the lining of the mouth, gums, tonsil, or tongue
- Sore throat
- Any chewing or swallowing difficulties
- Any difficulty moving the tongue or jaw
- Oral numbness
- Swelling of the jaw
- A lump in the cheek
Although traces of these symptoms can be directly linked to oral cancer, it’s good to be aware of any strange oral occurrences because a healthy mouth makes for a healthy body.
In general, it is beneficial to get an oral cancer screening each year. The oral cancer screening is a fairly simple process that will show any possible abnormalities in areas such as the oral cavity, nasopharynx, and larynx. Manually feeling for swollen lymph nodes in the neck, and feeling the floor and roof of your mouth is also part of the examination process.
Cancer is a scary thing and smaller organs of the body can be easily forgotten so it is important to maintain a healthy oral hygiene and lifestyle with annual oral cancer screenings. For more information on oral cancer screenings in Polk City, Bondurant, Elkhart, Aleman, or surrounding areas, Call Dental Impressions of Ankeny, IA to schedule your appointment with Dr. Foust. Get more information on general dentistry on our website.
