April is Oral Cancer Awareness month- do you know the common symptoms?
Oral cancer symptoms can include:
- Persistent hoarseness
- Pain or difficulty swallowing
- Lump in the throat or neck
- Persistent earache- often in both ears
- Numbness in or around the mouth
Early signs or symptoms of oral cancer can be noticed by Dr. Burmaster and Dr. Hemphill during routine preventive care at Barataria Dental in Marrero: early symptoms are usually subtle and difficult for patients to notice. Oral cancer is on the rise in the U.S. and unfortunately leads to approximately 8,000 deaths per year. While smoking and tobacco use has long been considered the major cause of oral cancers, the rise of the HPV virus has led to an increase in the number of cases worldwide and is now considered to be a leading cause of this type of cancer. Unfortunately, oral cancer is often diagnosed in the later stages and is difficult to treat and cure. Dentists like Dr. Burmaster and Dr. Hemphill, who screen for oral cancer during routine visits, are trying to reduce the number of patients who fall into this category.
Oral cancer screening is quick and painless- and can save your life! Barataria Dental will use ViziLite Plus technology to screen for oral cancer and identify suspicious lesions that may need further diagnosis. ViziLite Plus combines the use of a special solution and light that enables Dr. Burmaster to identify abnormal cells within the oral cavity.
Preventive dental care is even more important when patients consider that these visits offer Dr. Burmaster and Dr. Hemphill the opportunity to spot developing health issues in their earliest stages, offering the best chance for successful treatment. Preventive care not only helps to support good dental health, but is a part of maintaining overall health and well being: there is often a correlation between a patient’s oral health condition and the state of their physical health.
Be a part of the solution to this growing health issue- get screened!
