April 1st marks the start of oral cancer awareness month. According to the America Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons, the death rate of oral cancer is one of the highest because oral cancer is often discovered in its later stages.
Getting regular screenings for oral cancer may help save your life and provide you with the treatment you need. When oral cancer is dedicated and treated early, patients may have a higher chance of minimizing the risks associated with oral cancer. The best way to catch oral cancer early is to visit a trusted dentist.
Dr. Doyle Freano is an experienced and knowledgeable dentist in Lexington, KY. Dr. Doyle understands the importance of maintaining excellent oral health and how it relates to the body. Dr. Freano performs oral cancer screenings during your biannual dental checkup. Dr. Freano will check for signs of oral cancer like:
- Lumps or red spots in the mouth and throat
- Difficulty chewing, speaking or swallowing
- Pain or discomfort with moving the tongue or jaw
- Sores in the mouth that don’t disappear after two weeks
- Tenderness, swelling, or sores on the mouth or lips
If you have noticed any of the symptoms listed above, please contact our Lexington, KY dental office. Dr. Freano will perform a full exam to determine if you may need further treatment.
Know Your Risks
As for many health issues, certain people may have a higher risk of developing oral cancer. Research has shown that specific factors put people at risk for developing oral cancer. Some of the most common risk factors are:
- Age
- Tobacco use
- Alcohol consumption
- HPV (Human Papillomavirus)
Dr. Freano will perform full head and neck examination and may even schedule a follow up if need be. Knowing your risks may help you find ways to lower your risks and change your lifestyle. Oral cancer is a serious health concern that may change the quality of your life. It is important to get regular screenings for oral cancer to maintain the quality of your life.
Oral Cancer Screening in Lexington, KY
If you would like to schedule an oral cancer screening, you can visit our Lexington, Ky dental office. If you would like to schedule an appointment, call 859.554.1586 or schedule an appointment online.