Oral cancer strikes thousands of Americans annually. Deadly when advanced, this all-too-common malady responds well to early detection and treatment. At Dunkling and Penney Dentistry in Burlington, VT, dentists, Dr. Paul Dunkling and Dr. Greg Penney perform oral cancer screenings on their adult patients with each six-month examination and hygienic cleaning.
What is oral cancer?
Oral cancer is a malignancy (growth of abnormal cells) found in the mouth and back of the throat. These areas include the lips, tongue, cheeks, roof of the mouth, beneath the tongue, and tonsils. The Oral Cancer Foundation says that advancing age (40 and over) is a risk factor along with:
- Excessive sun exposure
- Tobacco usage (smokeless and cigarettes)
- Alcohol abuse
- Exposure to the Human Papilloma Virus (HPV), the trigger for cervical cancer
- A diet low in fiber from fruits and vegetables
Signs you may have oral cancer
Unfortunately, symptoms can hide from the individuals themselves. That's why your Burlington, VT, dentists are so vigilant about routine oral cancer screening.
However, many people do experience symptoms which may include:
- A sore or white patch which does not heal within 14 days
- A noticeable lump, area of irritation, or crust
- Problems speaking, swallowing, or opening and closing your jaw
- Changes in dental bite or in denture fit
- Pain in the oral cavity
While these signs may not be cancerous, only a physician or dentist can determine if a lesion is harmful. He will send a sample for biopsy, a lab analysis which spots disease, such as cancer, and other conditions as well.
Treating oral cancer
If Dr. Dunkling or Dr. Penney refer you for treatment of oral cancer, procedures may include:
- Surgical excision, or removal of the lesion
- Radiation
- Chemotherapy
- Targeted therapy which concentrates on the cancer's genetic origins and other factors
The earlier the better
Caught and contained, oral cancer has a cure rate of up to 90 percent, says the Oral Cancer Foundation. To reduce your risk of suffering from this disease, come to Dunkling and Penney Dentistry for your routine cancer screening. It takes just a few minutes but yields a wealth of valuable information to help you enjoy a long and healthy life.
If you need a routine check-up and cleaning appointment, call one of our two offices. In Burlington, VT, phone (802) 863-3479, or for Jericho, VT, call (802) 899-3973.