Let's put an end to oral cancer!
April is Oral Cancer Awareness month, and the Oral Cancer Foundation (OCF) has asked dentists to join them in their national screening campaign to increase awareness.Like many Americans, you may be unaware of how serious this disease is; it has been estimated that approximately 43,250 people in the United States will be diagnosed with oral cancer this year.
The victims of oral cancer aren't just smokers and tobacco users. Though these habits remain major risk factors, a significant percentage of oral cancer patients are young, healthy, nonsmoking individuals that are connected to the Human Papilloma Virus. The best chance we have for saving lives is through early detection and public awareness.
An oral cancer screening is a standard part of your recall examination. We look for any changes that might indicate an early oral cancer. Oral cancer can be tricky as it often starts out looking like many benign conditions.
If you develop an sore area or ulcer in the mouth that lasts more than a few weeks it should be evaluated. Delay can be dangerous. We will be glad to take a look at any problem you have.
For more information on oral cancer, including a self exam, visit our webpage www.laserdentistbaltimore.com/oral-cancer-information/
