What is Oral Cancer?

According to the National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research, “the term oral cancer includes cancers of the mouth and the pharynx (the back of the throat).” 

During regular cleaning and exams, your dentist should be looking at your lips, gums, cheeks, and tongue (the sides and underneath). When diagnosing oral cancer early, your mouth may be showing the following signs, like red or white patches, sores that bleed, a hard spot or a lump, and/or a roughened area. To learn more about the symptoms you may experience, read our article titled “The Dentist’s Role in Detecting HPV.” 

If your dentist isn’t regularly checking your mouth for these symptoms, you should switch to an experienced and knowledgeable dentist who is concerned about you, your overall health and wellbeing. 

The dedicated family dentists in Howell at Dr. DiStefano & Associates provide excellent, personalized care and services to make your visits as comfortable and pleasant as possible. Our ultimate goal is to help you improve you and your family’s dental health through care and education. We’re also dedicated to maintaining a higher level of service to our patients so we can remain the best family dentists in Howell Michigan.

In an effort to help patients identify their risk for oral cancer, we now offer the OraRisk HPV test at our dentist office in Howell, Michigan. It is a non-invasive screening tool used to identify the types of HPV that could lead to oral cancer. The test allows us to establish if the patient is at an increased risk for oral cancer and determine appropriate action.

Call Doctor Gary DiStefano, D.D.S., your favorite family dentist in Howell, Michigan today to schedule your first oral cancer screening.  We’ll get you on your way to better health! 517-546-8983

The Importance of Oral Cancer Screenings

Does cancer run in your family?

Do you fail to schedule regular cleanings and exams? 

Are you a smoker?

If you answered “Yes,” to any of the above questions, then you could be at a higher risk of developing oral cancer. However, research has proven that if you consistently go to the dentist for regular cleanings and exams, your dentist may be able to spot potential health risks in advance, including oral cancer.

According to the American Dental Association, “a number of factors contribute to the development of mouth and throat cancers. Smokers and excessive alcohol drinkers older than 50 are the most at risk. More recently, the human papilloma virus (HPV), which is sexually transmitted, has been associated with cancers of the oropharyngeal region that is the part of the throat at the back of the mouth.”

In an effort to help patients identify their risk for oral cancer, our dentist's in Howell, Michigan now offer the oral cancer testing. Please visit our website for more details. 

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I reduce my risk of oral cancer?

To reduce your risk of oral cancer, limit the use of tobacco, alcohol and sun exposure. In addition, eating a healthy diet, and maintaining an exercise regimen helps lower your risk for many diseases.

 

What is my dentist looking for to diagnose oral cancer?

Your dentist will be looking at your lips, gums, cheeks, tongue (the sides and underneath) for red or white patches, sores that bleed, a hard spot or a lump, or a roughened area. Please see a doctor immediately if you spot any of these signs in your mouth.

How is oral cancer treated?

Surgery is used to eliminate the cancerous cells, followed by radiation treatment and/or chemotherapy to destroy any remaining oral cancer cells.   

Call to Schedule an Appointment

Please schedule an appointment with Dr. DiStefano to discuss your concerns and care plan.  As one of the premiere dentists in Howell, Michigan, Dr. DiStefano has over 30 years’ experience caring for his patients’ health.  He strives to educate his patients and improve their lives through dental care and disease prevention. 

Your health and smile are vital for you and very important to us! Contact us today 517-546-8983 to schedule an appointment and get on your way to better health and joyful life!