April is National Oral Cancer Awareness Month. Dentist Dr. Bruce Spink knows that early intervention can save lives. Oral cancer is often fatal because it goes undiagnosed until the late stages. Getting screened every 6 months can help catch oral cancer early for potentially life-saving treatment. Oral cancer screenings are provided with every dental health exam at our Birmingham AL dentist office.
Nearly 50,000 Americans will be diagnosed with oral cancer this year alone. Understanding the signs and symptoms of the disease could help you get an early diagnosis. Although the signs of oral cancer could be symptoms of other oral health concerns, if they persist for up to two weeks it is essential you schedule a dentist appointment with Dr. Spink.
Signs of Oral Cancer
- Red or white patches in your mouth
- Thickening of soft oral tissue
- Open sores
- Feeling of something caught in your throat
- Hoarseness
Oral Cancer Risk Factors
If you smoke, chew, or vape tobacco, you are at a much higher risk of developing oral cancer. Patients with family history of cancer, are over the age of 45 or who drink alcohol heavily are also at higher risk. In recent years dentists have been finding oral cancer in younger and younger patients. Some patients as young as in their 20s have been diagnosed with oral cancer that is linked to HPV exposure. If you have or have been in contact with someone who has HPV, be sure to get screened for oral cancer regularly.
Oral Cancer Screenings
Dr. Spink provides every patient with a quick, painless oral cancer screening at every visit to our Birmingham, AL dentist office. The screening takes only two minutes and is non-invasive. This simple screening can help save your life.
Schedule A Consultation
Encourage everyone you know to get screened for oral cancer. To learn more about how Spink Dentistry can help you treat oral health concerns before they advance to complex dental concerns. Contact our Birmingham dentist office or schedule a visit online. Our dental care team will be with you every step of the way.