At Montz and Maher Dental Group, we understand that caring for your oral health involves more than just your teeth. This comprehensive approach is especially important when it comes to oral cancer survival outcomes. Two crucial numbers to remember are 40% and 90%.
40% of people who receive a late-stage diagnosis die within five years. However, the survival rate for early stage diagnosis is 90%.
Oral Cavity and Oropharynx—Mouth and Throat
Cancers that originate in the mouth (or oral cavity) are termed oral cancers. The oral cavity consists of the inside tissue of the mouth and cheeks, the lips, the tissue underneath the tongue, the roof of the mouth, and the front two-thirds of the tongue. “Why only two-thirds of the tongue?” you might ask. Because the back third of the tongue is considered part of the throat. Throat cancers, or oropharyngeal cancers, start in the oropharynx, the part of the mouth behind the parts considered part of the oral cavity. The oropharynx consists of the soft palate, the tonsils, and the throat.
How Are Oral Cancers Diagnosed?
Some oral cancers create symptoms that prompt the patient to see a doctor and others are discovered by dentists and doctors during exams. Thousands of lives could be saved every year if more men and women received regular screenings.
A visual oral cancer exam is relatively quick and convenient, especially as compared to other cancer screening tests such as colonoscopies and mammograms. If an abnormality is discovered during an exam, the patient is referred to an appropriate specialist for further testing and diagnosis.
Be proactive. Ask your dentist or doctor to perform an oral cancer screening during each examination or physical. If you have one or more risk factors, it’s important to speak with your healthcare provider for advice on oral cancer screenings and prevention.
Oral Cancer Risk Factors
- Tobacco use (cigarettes, chewing tobacco, or snuff)
- Heavy drinking
- Unhealthy diet
- HPV infection
- Weak immune system
- Frequent exposure to UV light (a risk factor for cancers of the lips)
At Montz and Maher Dental Group, we are committed to providing comprehensive dental care that encompasses both restorative and cosmetic dentistry. Whether you’re looking to enhance your smile with cosmetic treatments like veneers or address dental issues that require restorative procedures, our skilled team is here to help.
Your oral health and satisfaction are our priorities, and we strive to deliver personalized care that meets your unique needs. Visit us today to discover how we can assist you in achieving a healthy, beautiful smile.
Contact Montz and Maher Dental Group:
281-482-1275
Location (Tap to open in Google Maps):
820 S Friendswood Ste 100
Friendswood, Texas
77546
Sources:
http://www.dentistrytoday.com/news/todays-dental-news/item/1882-awareness-is-the-key-to-fighting-oral-cancer#sthash.HhX8jCtf.dpuf
https://www.cancer.org/cancer/oral-cavity-and-oropharyngeal-cancer/about/what-is-oral-cavity-cancer.html
