Did you know that oral cancer is the 13th most common type of cancer in Canada?

Researchers found that in 2013, an estimated 4,100 people in Canada were diagnosed with the disease. However, there are many things that everyone can do to reduce the risk of developing oral cancer – detecting the disease early and making positive lifestyle choices

Smoking, drinking, sun exposure to the lips, and HPV are all known risk factors for developing oral cancer. These risk factors are avoidable and preventable and by modifying our lifestyle choices we can certainly reduce the risk.

In addition to these risk factors, it’s important that you watch for changes in your mouth and general signs of oral cancer to ensure that the disease is detected early:

  • Alterations to the colour or texture of gums, cheeks or tongue
  • Persistent mouth sores that do not heal within 14 days
  • Chronic sore throat
  • Difficulty swallowing
  • Lumps in the neck (even those that don’t bother you)
  • Mouth or ear pain

At the Dundas Family Dental clinic, our dental hygienists are well educated and experienced with the signs and symptoms of oral cancer. During your appointment they can easily determine if the disease is present or not. It is very important that you schedule regular appointments every 6 months where our team can closely look at your dental health and address and resolve any dental health problems that you may not realize are existent.

Though oral cancer is a heavier topic, the great thing is that most cancers of the mouth can be treated if caught in time with the innovative developments in oral healthcare treatments. Nevertheless, it’s important to keep in mind the things you can do on a daily basis in order to reduce your risk – embrace a healthy lifestyle and maintain regular dental hygiene appointments that include oral cancer screenings.

If you have any questions regarding oral cancer screenings or other dental health questions don’t hesitate to contact our office – we will gladly answer any questions or concerns you may have!