Over 50,000 people are diagnosed with some form of oral cancer in the United States every year according to the American Cancer Society. Oral cancer has a five year survival rate of just over 50%, with over 10,000 deaths every year, making prevention and early detection especially important. Our dentist Dr. Mildred Arucan-Masunaga offers oral cancer screenings at our office in Wahiawa, HI.

Oral Cancer Diagnosis and Treatment in Wahiawa, HI

Regular oral cancer screenings are an important part of your overall oral health routine. There are several types of oral cancer depending on where it is located and is included in the category of head and neck cancers:

• Tongue
• Lip
• Inner cheek
• Floor of mouth
• Gum
• Hard palate

Cancer of the larynx and pharynx (oral pharyngeal) can also be considered a form of oral cancer.

Depending on the type of cancer, some of the early symptoms can resemble common problems like a canker sore or gingivitis. The most important and proactive thing you can do to protect yourself from oral cancer and ensure early detection is to go to the dentist for regular check ups and professional dental cleanings, where the dentist will look for signs of oral cancer as well as tooth decay and gum disease.

The American Dental Association (ADA) recommends scheduling an appointment every six months for most people, but Dr. Arucan-Masunaga may recommend more frequent screenings depending on your risk levels.

Some of the most common signs, symptoms, and risk factors for oral cancer include:

• mouth sores that don't heal
• mouth pain
• lump or growth in the lining of the cheek
• red or white patches on the gums, tongue, or anywhere in the mouth
• persistent sore throat and difficulty eating and chewing
• persistent bad breath
• a lump in the neck
• unexplained weight loss
• numbness in the tongue or mouth
• jaw swelling
• unexplained vocal/voice changes

Some of the most common risk factors for oral cancers according to the American Cancer Society include:

• tobacco and alcohol use
• HPV (human papillomavirus)
• gender (twice as common in men than in women)
• age (more common over age 55)
• UV exposure
• poor diet
• weak immune system
• family history

Find a Dentist in Wahiawa, HI

For more information about the signs and symptoms of oral cancer and what you can do to lower your risk, contact our office today by calling (808) 622-0001 to schedule an appointment with Dr. Arucan-Masunaga.