April is Oral Cancer Awareness Month, a time when dental professionals and organizations aim to raise awareness of oral cancer and its risk factors. According to the American Cancer Society, about 54,000 Americans will be diagnosed with oral oropharyngeal cancer this year, and about 10,850 deaths will occur from these cancers. The five-year survival rate for oral cancer is approximately 60%, but early detection and treatment can significantly increase these rates. This month serves as a reminder to take the necessary steps to maintain good oral health and detect any potential issues early.
At Frankel Dentistry, we are committed to helping our patients achieve optimal oral health and preventing oral cancer. During a routine dental exam, our dental professionals perform an oral cancer screening to detect any signs of oral cancer or precancerous lesions. Our experienced team will examine your mouth, throat, and tongue for any abnormalities, including red or white patches, sores, or lumps. The screening is quick and painless and can detect oral cancer at an early stage when it is most treatable. Prevention is the best way to avoid oral cancer.
Here are some tips to help you maintain optimal oral health:
Don’t use tobacco: Tobacco use, including smoking and smokeless tobacco, is the most significant risk factor for oral cancer. Quitting smoking or using tobacco products can significantly reduce your risk of oral cancer.
Drink alcohol in moderation: Heavy alcohol consumption can increase the risk of oral cancer. Limiting alcohol consumption to one drink per day for women and two drinks per day for men can help reduce your risk.
Eat a balanced diet: A diet rich in fruits and vegetables can help reduce the risk of oral cancer. A diet that is high in processed or red meat may increase the risk.
Practice good oral hygiene: Brush and floss your teeth daily, and visit your dentist regularly for cleanings and checkups. This will help maintain good oral health and detect any potential issues early.
At Frankel Dentistry, we offer a range of dental services to help you maintain optimal oral health, including preventive care, restorative dentistry, and cosmetic dentistry. Our dental professionals are dedicated to providing the highest quality care to help you achieve a healthy, beautiful smile. Oral Cancer Awareness Month is an opportunity to learn more about oral cancer and take the necessary steps to maintain optimal oral health. At Frankel Dentistry, we are committed to helping patients achieve optimal oral health and prevent or detect oral cancer early.
Take control of your oral health and schedule your cleaning and screening today.
Frankel Dentistry offers two locations, convenient hours, online scheduling, free insurance benefits and more. Call today to schedule with us. We can’t wait to see your smile!