Oral cancer is a life-threatening condition that often goes unnoticed until it's too late. Each year, more than 54,000 Americans are diagnosed with oral or oropharyngeal cancer, and tragically, over 10,000 lives are lost.
The key to changing this is early detection—and that’s where regular dental screenings come in.
At Oxford Dental, we’re passionate about providing more than just clean teeth. We offer comprehensive oral cancer screenings as part of every thorough dental cleaning because we know that one screening could save a life.
Who’s at Risk for Oral Cancer?
Oral cancer can affect anyone, but certain factors can increase your risk. Understanding who’s at risk is crucial for early detection:
Tobacco Users: This includes cigarettes, cigars, pipes, and chewing tobacco. Tobacco use is one of the leading causes of oral cancer.
Heavy Alcohol Consumption: Those who drink alcohol in excess are at a higher risk, especially if combined with tobacco use.
HPV (Human Papillomavirus): HPV, particularly HPV-16, is becoming a leading cause of oral cancer, especially in young adults. Studies show that the increase in oral cancer cases linked to HPV has risen dramatically in the past decade.
Sun Exposure: Prolonged exposure to the sun can increase the risk of lip cancers.
Age: While oral cancer has traditionally affected adults over the age of 50, we are now seeing a rise in younger patients, especially those with HPV.
Diet: A diet low in fruits and vegetables has been linked to a higher risk of developing oral cancer.
The Rise in Young Women Being Affected
Oral cancer has traditionally been more common in men over 50, but recent trends show a worrying rise in younger women being diagnosed. This increase is largely attributed to the HPV virus. Young women, particularly those under 30, are now at greater risk, making regular screenings more important than ever.
Why Early Detection is Key
Oral cancer often shows no visible symptoms in its early stages. By the time it’s noticed, it may have already spread, making treatment more difficult. That’s why early detection is crucial. An oral cancer screening during a routine dental cleaning can detect suspicious areas or lesions before they become more serious.
During your visit to Oxford Dental, our team of highly trained professionals will examine your:
Lips, gums, and cheeks for signs of abnormalities.
Tongue, floor, and roof of your mouth for any suspicious lumps or bumps.
Back of the throat for any unusual growths.
This screening takes just a few minutes but could save your life.
Watch Our Oral Cancer Awareness Video
We’ve created a video to further explain the risks, symptoms, and importance of getting an oral cancer screening. Watch the video below to learn more:
After watching, we encourage you to share this video with your friends, family, and community. Together, we can raise awareness and promote early detection.
Common Symptoms of Oral Cancer
While many cases are caught early through screenings, it’s important to be aware of the symptoms that might indicate oral cancer:
Persistent mouth sores that do not heal.
Red or white patches inside the mouth.
Difficulty swallowing or chewing.
Numbness in the mouth or tongue.
Lumps or thickening of the tissues inside the mouth.
If you notice any of these symptoms, don’t wait. Schedule an appointment immediately for an evaluation.
What You Can Do to Protect Yourself
The most important step you can take is to schedule regular dental cleanings and oral cancer screenings. At Oxford Dental, we recommend getting screened at least once a year, or more frequently if you are at a higher risk (due to factors like smoking or HPV).
Preventive care is the best form of protection. A thorough dental cleaning combined with an oral cancer screening can ensure that any potential issues are detected early when they are most treatable.
Schedule Your Comprehensive Dental Cleaning & Screening Today
Your health is too important to ignore. Don’t wait until it’s too late—book your comprehensive dental cleaning and oral cancer screening at Oxford Dental today.
📞 Call us at 662-234-5222 or visit oxforddental.com to schedule your appointment.
At Oxford Dental, we are committed to safeguarding the smiles and health of our community. Early detection saves lives, and we’re here to help ensure you’re protected.