{"id":145,"date":"2020-04-16T18:31:47","date_gmt":"2020-04-16T18:31:47","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.marltoncosmeticdentist.com\/blog\/?p=145"},"modified":"2020-05-15T18:32:07","modified_gmt":"2020-05-15T18:32:07","slug":"oral-cancer-another-reason-not-to-skip-your-dental-checkups","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.marltoncosmeticdentist.com\/blog\/2020\/04\/oral-cancer-another-reason-not-to-skip-your-dental-checkups\/","title":{"rendered":"Oral Cancer: Another Reason Not to Skip Your Dental Checkups!"},"content":{"rendered":"\n
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Did you know that your biannual dental checkups<\/a> with your Marlton dentist are about more than just keeping your pearly whites clean? In fact, the main point of these routine visits is to spot and stop a wide variety of oral health issues as early as possible, including oral cancer. This dangerous condition effects more than 50,000 Americans every year, and it can be life-threatening if not caught and treated early enough. Here\u2019s what you need to know about this oral health concern and how regular dental checkups can help keep you and your smile healthy.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n

Understanding Oral Cancer<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Like other forms of cancer, oral cancer manifests as an uncontrollable growth of cells that spreads and damages the surrounding tissues. This can occur anywhere in the mouth, including the tongue, lips, gums, cheeks, or throat. While anyone can develop this condition, factors like tobacco use, heavy alcohol use, and excessive sun exposure to the lips can increase your risk. It\u2019s estimated that oral cancer causes about 10,000 deaths every year, but it can be successfully treated and cured if caught early enough.  <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Early Detection & Dental Checkups<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Oral cancer screenings are a quick, non-invasive procedure that are typically incorporated into your regular dental checkups. Your dentist has the specialized training and tools needed to closely investigate areas of your mouth that you may have trouble seeing. They\u2019ll use a medical light to look for any abnormalities or discolorations inside your mouth and inspect your face, neck, and jaw for lumps or swelling.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Like tooth decay, gum disease, and many other dental health issues, oral cancer can easily develop an progress without you seeing or feeling it. Regularly visiting your dentist is the best way to detect all these problems even when your smile looks and feels fine. Thankfully, the sooner oral cancer is caught, the more likely successful treatment is.   <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Warning Symptoms of Oral Cancer<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Between your biannual visits to your dentist, be on the lookout for warning symptoms of oral cancer, like:<\/p>\n\n\n\n