There is a silent killer, that is often overlooked and thus untreated. It’s called oral cancer, and it affects millions of Americans every year.
No one likes to talk about their oral health problems, and for good reason. Talking openly and honestly with others about your oral health problems can be a scary experience. But it's the only way to get the treatment and help you need. If you want to get screened for cancer, visit gorgeous smiles to learn more about getting screened for cancer and how to have a healthy mouth.
Usually when you go to the dentist, it is because you have dental pain, you want teeth whitening or dental cleaning and scaling. We want to emphasize in this blog how important it is to have twice yearly check-up at the dentist. Yes, your dentist will make sure you do not have any cavities, but what is more important is how regular dental visits can actually save your life!
You might think cancers are rare but let’s look at some statistics: approximately 132 individuals are diagnosed with oral cancer every day, and someone dies of oral cancer every hour! It is a very deadly cancer and only half of oral patients survive over 5 years after their initial diagnosis. You need to remember that early detection and save your life! If diagnosed early survival rate increases by 80-90%
Excessive Alcohol consumption: drinking too much alcohol can increase the risk of cancer by double or even more.
Excessive Sun exposure: prolonged and excessive sun exposure can increase the chance of lip cancer due to UV rays.
Tobacco: using tobacco like cigarettes can increase the chance of having oral cancer by 3 times or more!
Age: two third of individuals with oral cancer are over 55 years old
Although knowing the risks can help us prevent them and reduce the chance of oral cancer, It is still affecting individuals that are non-smoker and healthy. One main reason can be HPV or Human papillomavirus. HPV is a sexually transmitted disease and will increase the chance of individuals 32 times more to have oral cancer.
Oral cancer is the sixth most common cancer in the United States. It is the second most common cause of death from cancer among individuals in the United States, behind lung cancer. It is also one of the most common and deadliest cancers that people can get.
Oral cancer is a disease that can be cured, but may lead to devastating consequences if not detected early. The symptoms are not always noticeable, so if you are a smoker, have a strong family history of the disease, or have a weakened immune system, you should definitely take your health seriously.
Oral cancer starts as painless ulcers or sores and we highly recommend checking regularly at home and at your dentist. Come and see us at Gorgeous Smiles if you see or feel any lumps, white o red patches, numbness or sores that do not heal within 2 weeks.
Don't put off necessary dental care out of fear of the costs. With Openpay and smile.com.au, you can access the dental services you need now. Contact us for more information or to book a consultation. Visit our website or call the Gorgeous Smiles team today on 03 9042 0483
Author: Dr Minoo Ghamari
Gorgeous Smiles Dental Principal Dentist
Help us raise awareness about Oral Cancer by sharing this post with your friends and loved ones.
** The content on this blog is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of qualified dentist in Melbourne with questions you may have regarding medical conditions.
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