Your Mouth Can Hide a Secret

Oral Cancer is on the rise.

With oral cancer now the fastest growing form of cancer, a thorough exam that includes an oral cancer screening is critical.

Does your dentist check your tongue?  Neck, glands and gums?  If the answer is no – you are not getting a comprehensive oral exam  While oral cancer is the leading cause of cancer in men, (Oral Cancer Foundaiton) the good news is when detected at an early stage, it is by far the most treatable of all cancers.  Detection is the key word.

Red or white discolorations on your gums, cheek or tongue, any sore that doesn’t heal within two weeks, or hoarseness in your voice that just won’t seem to quit for a prolonged period of time, are all possible early warning signs.

In addition to your dentist’s physical or manual touch, some dentists in the U.S.  are now using the latest technology in oral cancer detection. This new technology Velscope® uses a safe blue light and filters to search for the oral tissues in any area that might be of concern. It’s painless and safe.

Ask your dentist if he or she uses this new technology or at least what type of oral cancer detection do they practice.

What type of oral exam are you accustomed to?

I’m curious to hear about our reader’s experiences.