Learning you have oral cancer can be devastating and leave you with many questions and concerns— because most cases are detected in the later stage of the disease. At Innovative Implant and Oral Surgery, we believe in having a healthy smile, which includes annual oral cancer screenings and prompt, professional, and effective treatment and repairs. Our Newtown office is ready to talk to you about your oral cancer concerns and provide you with the next steps.
Cancer screenings
Each year, more than 51,000 people are diagnosed with oral cancer, with roughly 40 percent of those losing their battle within five years after diagnosis and many more suffering from severe facial disfigurements. That’s because most people neglect to get routine oral screenings and are usually diagnosed in the later stages of cancer, making it much more difficult to cure.
The best way to combat oral cancer is by avoiding things that increase your risk and scheduling annual screenings at Innovative Implant and Oral Surgery.
While most patients are diagnosed in their early 60’s, at least 25 percent of oral cancer patients are under the age of 55. This is why the Oral Cancer Foundation recommends starting annual screenings as early as age 18, or even earlier for teenagers who use tobacco products. You should also perform self-examinations each month, monitoring chronic sore throats, noting any abnormal bleeding, and looking for any red or white patches along the gums, tongue, teeth, and cheeks.
Top risk factors for oral cancer
Everyone can be at risk for oral cancer, but certain things put you at a higher risk, meaning you should be even more vigilant about screenings and monthly self-examinations. Top risk factors for oral cancer include:
- Use of tobacco products, including smokeless products, like chew.
- Heavy consumption of alcohol (2+ drinks per day for men and 1+ drinks for women)
- Exposure to Human Papilloma Virus (HPV)
- Heavy sun exposure (wearing protective lip balm can decrease risk)
- Men are twice as likely as women to develop oral cancer
- Being 50+ years of age
- Having Graft-Versus-Host disease (GVHD)
- Having genetic syndromes that affect the health of your skin, blood, cells, and genes.
Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery
Survivors of oral cancer are often left with extreme deformations in the face, jaw, and mouth. At Innovative Implant and Oral Surgery, our Newtown oral surgeons are trained in complex reconstructive surgeries that correct such issues, helping you reach a full, holistic recovery. We are experienced in correcting damages caused by oral cancer, as well as many other disfigurements and traumas.
Detecting and treating oral cancer
If you think you might have oral cancer, don’t wait to talk to a professional. Our Newtown oral surgeons are highly trained in detecting, treating, and repairing. Our work goes beyond cosmetics and is centered around providing patients with a healthy smile that they love. Contact us today to schedule your consultation and annual oral cancer screening.