The Oral Cancer Foundation asserts that around 54,000 people in the United States will be diagnosed with oral cancer this year alone, with around 10,000 of them likely dying from this terrible disease. April is Oral Cancer Awareness Month, and Costa Dentistry can help you get screened.
Oral Cancer Screening at Costa Dentistry
Oral cancer is one kind of cancer you can get in the mouth, throat, tongue, or lips, and if left undetected, it can be life-threatening. However, it is also one of the most easily treatable forms of cancer when diagnosed early. Our dentists and team provide VELscope® oral cancer screenings in Ashburn and Great Falls, Virginia, to check for signs of disease and identify developing issues that might otherwise be missed by the naked eye.
According to the American Cancer Society, people who are considered to be at an average risk for oral cancer should undergo a cancer screening every three years, starting at age 20. However, people who use tobacco or alcohol or who have a history of oral cancer in their family may need to be screened more frequently.
When you come in for your cancer screening, our dentist will begin by evaluating your mouth and throat for the signs of cancer. This includes looking for any red or white patches, sores or lumps in the mouth. Should something suspicious be found, a biopsy may be done to confirm or rule out cancer.
Oral Cancer Signs and Symptoms
It’s also important to be aware of the signs and symptoms of oral cancer, which can include:
- A sore throat that persists for longer than two weeks
- A lump or thickening in your cheek or throat
- Problems when you swallow or chew
- A white or red patch on the tongue or gums
- Noticeable unexplained bleeding in the mouth
- Numbness or pain in the mouth or lips
Schedule your Oral Cancer Screening with Costa Dentistry
Should you find yourself experiencing any of these symptoms, it’s important to schedule an appointment with our dental team as soon as possible for screening.