Oral cancer claims a life every hour of every day. According to the American Dental Association, 35,000 new cases will be diagnosed in the US alone this year.
Dr. Lee Fitzgerald of Fitzgerald Dental Implant Center is pleased to sponsor the International Oral Cancer Association, a group dedicated to eradicate this deadly disease.
The Facts
Oral cancer can occur on any soft tissue in the mouth or throat. Lesions can even appear on the lips. The disease affects twice as many men as women and is more prevalent in people aged 40 and over. It’s the 6th most common cancer for men and the 14th for women. More people die of oral cancer than of melanoma and cervical cancer.
The Symptoms
Common symptoms of this disease include:
- Painful swallowing
- An unexplained lump in the neck
- White or red patches in the mouth
- A lingering mouth sore
- Oral bleeding
- Loose teeth
- An unexplained earache
If you experience any of these symptoms, call our office or your medical doctor to be screened for oral cancer.
The Causes
Tobacco use and alcohol consumption increase the risk, as does exposure to the Human Papilloma Virus (HPV). Frequent sun exposure plays a role in lesions that appear on the lips. A history of head or neck cancer also increases the likelihood of developing oral cancer.
Early Detection is Key
The key to survival is early detection. Dr. Fitzgerald performs an oral cancer screening at each new patient exam and subsequent checkup. He teams with organizations such as the International Oral Cancer Association to increase awareness of the disease, promote prevention, and someday find a cure.
An oral cancer screening could save your life. To learn more about oral cancer or to schedule a screening, call Fitzgerald Dental Implant Center in Plano/North Dallas.