According to the American Cancer Society, oral cancer is the sixth most common cancer with over 30,000 new cases diagnosed each year. It is most common in people over the age of 45 and men are twice as likely to develop the disease as women. Early detection of oral cancer means patients have an 80 percent survival rate. When the cancer is not detected early, the average 5-year survival rate drops to 57% and the cancer can spread to other areas of the face, head and neck leading to pain, facial disfigurement, loss of oral function and even death. …show more content…
Your dentist should conduct a thorough soft-tissue exam that includes the oral cavity and tongue, along with palpation of the head and neck. Between dental checkups, be vigilant about any of the following symptoms:
▪ A sore that lasts longer than 2 weeks.
▪ A swelling, lump or growth anywhere in the mouth or neck area.
▪ Red or white patches on the lips or in the