Know your risks for oral cancer! Knowing your risk for oral cancer can help patients change certain habits that may contribute to the development of oral cancer.
Risks factors for oral cancer:
- Excessive alcohol consumption
- Tobacco use
- HPV
Oral cancer is one of the deadliest forms of cancer because it is often diagnosed in the later stages, which limits the number of treatments available for patients. It is important to know the signs and risks of oral cancer because it can save your life. At Alexander Dentistry, Dr. Donald Alexander and Dr. Michael Greenburg offer routine screenings for complex dental issues, including oral cancer. We suggest that patients visit our Jacksonville, FL dental office twice a year for preventive dental care exams and routine screenings for complex dental problems.
Get Screened For Oral Cancer in Jacksonville, FL
As we mentioned, it is important for patients to visit our Jacksonville dental office twice a year for oral cancer screenings and preventive care exams. During your visit, Dr. Alexander and Dr. Greenburg will carefully examine your oral cavity to check for any early warning signs of oral cancer. If oral cancer is discovered during your screening, we will coordinate care with a specialist to get you the care you need to restore your health.
Common signs of Oral Cancer:
- Numbness in the mouth, especially on the tongue
- Change in the fit of your bite or dentures
- Difficulty swallowing
- Red or white patches
- Lesions in the mouth
- Lumps in the oral cavity, neck, or face
- Small sores, or thickening of soft tissue
- Tenderness, discomfort, or pain on lips or gums
If you notice any symptoms of oral cancer for more than two weeks, we suggest you schedule an appointment with our Jacksonville, FL dental office. If you need to schedule an appointment, you can call 904.372.8157 or schedule an appointment online.