Discovering Oral Cancer Early: A Lifesaving Practice

April 30, 2024

Your oral health is an essential aspect of your overall well-being, and it's crucial to stay proactive about maintaining it. According to the American Dental Association, over 50,000 adults in the United States will be diagnosed with oral or oropharyngeal cancer this year, with 10,000 fatalities. Fortunately, prevention and early detection can significantly reduce these risks and improve treatment outcomes.

Comprehensive Care for Your Oral Health

At Maria E. Acebo, DDS, your oral health and general well-being are our top priorities. Because the signs of oral cancer can often be mistaken for benign issues, many people remain unaware that a serious condition is present. While maintaining a healthy lifestyle and avoiding harmful habits play a significant role in minimizing the risk of oral cancer, regular dental checkups with thorough oral cancer screenings also contribute to early detection.

During a comprehensive dental checkup at our office, we perform a detailed screening for oral cancer. This includes closely examining the tissues inside and around your mouth, as well as palpating the jaw, neck, and under the chin for any unusual lesions or lumps that may indicate pathology.

Being Aware of Oral Cancer Symptoms

It's also essential to inform us if you have noticed any of the following tissue changes or lingering symptoms in or around your mouth:

  • Mouth ulcers or lesions that don't seem to heal
  • Unusual lumps or thickened areas
  • Red or white patches
  • Persistent swelling of unknown origin
  • Painful swallowing, a painful tongue, ear or neck ache
  • Constantly feeling like something is stuck in your throat
  • Tenderness or numbness in mouth or lips
  • Loose teeth
  • Jaw pain or stiffness

Your Partner for a Healthy Smile and Well-being

Although these signs and symptoms can represent benign issues, it's crucial to be certain. At the office of Maria E. Acebo, DDS, we provide comprehensive care to support healthy, beautiful smiles and protect your overall well-being. To learn more about our services and how we can help you maintain optimal oral health, give us a call today.

Don't hesitate to reach out with any questions or concerns you may have. Our dedicated staff is always here to assist you in any way possible. We look forward to hearing from you soon!

Hours of Operation

Monday
10:00 am - 5:00 pm
Tuesday
10:00 am - 5:00 pm
Wednesday
10:00 am - 5:00 pm
Thursday
10:00 am - 5:00 pm
Friday
Closed
Saturday
9:00 am - 3:00 pm