April is Oral Cancer Awareness Month. If you weren’t aware, you aren’t alone.
April is Oral Cancer Awareness Month. If you weren’t aware, you aren’t alone. Many people are unaware of this vital knowledge. It’s alarming that on average, one person, every hour of each day, passes away from oral cancer. This shocking statistic is precisely the reason why people need to have proper oral health care. Keep reading to learn about what oral cancer is, its symptoms, how you can prevent oral cancer from affecting you, and what happens during Oral Cancer Awareness Month.
What is Oral Cancer?
Cancer, in general, are cells that grow and invade and damage surrounding tissues. Oral cancer specifically harms your mouth, lips, tongue, cheeks, the floor of your mouth, your throat, or any area involving the inside or outside of your mouth. If you notice signs of oral cancer and don’t see a dentist right away, then the results are life-threatening.
Signs of Oral Cancer
One indicator of having oral cancer is lumps, crust, or rough areas around your lips, gums, or other areas around your mouth. Other signs are bleeding within the mouth that comes unexpectedly or any difficulty chewing, moving your jaw, a hoarse throat, or lacking the ability to speak without soreness. While seemingly minuscule, ear pain is even a reason to talk to a top dentist about the risk of oral cancer. There is a long list of symptoms, but the bottom line is that you know your body well enough to be able to detect when something is off. Don’t put off or prolong treatment.
What Exactly is Oral Cancer Awareness Month?
The American Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons (AAOMS) founded Oral Cancer Awareness Month. They encourage people to use mouthguards and protective gear such as helmets, especially when playing sports. Wearing protective equipment is one of many ways to prevent oral cancer. The AAOMS also advises dentists to provide free oral health exams and stress that people should also do self-examinations.
Top Ways To Prevent Oral Cancer
- Refrain from Smoking Cigarettes or Tobacco
- Consume less alcoholic beverages
- If you love being out in the sun, wear an SPF.
- See a dentist consistently to assess your oral health
Come to Smile Designs of Olney for All of Your Cosmetic Procedures
For your smile makeover or any other dental needs, come to Smile Designs of Olney! Book an appointment with us. Whether you want your teeth whitened, straightened, or restored altogether, we pride ourselves in quality patient care and giving you the smile makeover that you deserve. Our small, professional staff will make you feel right at home. We service the Montgomery County regions including Olney, Laytonsville, Brookville, Silver Spring, Rockville, Columbia, Bethesda, Chevy Chase and Germantown, MD. Contact us at (301) 260-0700, visit us online, and follow us on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and Youtube.