April is Oral Cancer Awareness Month
Oral cancer represents 3% of all cancers in United States. It is the 8th most common cancer in males and the 15th most common cancer in females. In between dental visits, the public is encouraged to regularly check for signs and symptoms of oral cancer and to see a dental professional if they do not improve or disappear after two to three weeks. Signs and symptoms include:
- Any sores or ulcerations that does not heal.
- A red, white, or black discoloration of the soft tissues of the mouth.
- A lump or mass on the tongue.
- A sore under a denture that does not heal.
- A lump or thickening that develops in the mouth.
- A painless, firm, fixated lump felt on the outside of the neck.
- Hoarseness or sore throat that does not resolve within a few weeks.
- Difficulty swallowing; a sensation that food is getting caught in your throat.
- An earache on one side (unilateral) that persists for more than a few days.
The following videos from the American Academy of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery explain how to perform a self-exam for oral cancer and contain useful oral cancer facts.
Always contact a dental professional right away if you have any immediate concerns. You can schedule an appointment for a full head and neck exam and oral cancer screening with an ECU SoDM Provider. Please see the closest location to you HERE.
We are also offering Teledentistry Virtual Consultations to our patients. Please see more information HERE.
Oral Cancer Awareness Video I
Oral Cancer Awareness Video II