HOW TO CHECK YOURSELF FOR ORAL CANCER

About 58,450 new cases of oral cavity or oropharyngeal cancer will be detected this year according to a recent report from the American Cancer Society. Oral cancer or cancer of the mouth, commonly occurs on the tongue, gums, oropharynx (the back of the throat), floor and roof of the mouth, lips and cheeks. 

Oral cancer can have many signs and symptoms, some of which may not get your attention immediately. So it’s important to learn how to check yourself regularly. Examining yourself once a month, using a simple self-check guide may save your life. When detected early, there is a much higher chance of surviving without long-term problems.

Some common signs and symptoms of oral cancer include:

• Sores on your lip or inside your mouth that bleed easily and don’t heal within two weeks.
• Rough spots or crusty areas on your lips, gums or inside of your mouth.
• Pain, numbness or tenderness on your face and neck or in your mouth that occur without apparent cause.
• Difficulty chewing or swallowing, speaking or moving your jaw or tongue.
• Weight loss
• Earache
• Chronic bad breath

Here is a simple two-minute self-check guide from the Mouth Cancer Foundation. Feel free to visit for more information below:

mouth-cancer-facts-poster-2-minute-check-final-croped

While monitoring yourself and checking regularly for any abnormalities is extremely important, it must coincide with routine visits to your dentist to be checked by a professional. Weaver, Reckner and Reinhart Dental Associates, one of the leading cosmetic and family dentists in Bucks County and Montgomery County, perform an oral cancer screening at every dental check-up. Our team of dental hygienists and doctors are committed to providing our patients with the best possible care and educating on identifying possible risk factors and symptoms. 

Our full-service dental practice provides patients with a range of procedures, including dental implants, orthodontics, and facial rejuvenation. If you’re interested in more information regarding our practice or dental services, please contact one of our offices at 215-486-1649 or 215-486-1652.