Smile Safeguard: The Importance of Oral Cancer Screening

Oral cancer kills more people nationwide than either cervical or skin (melanoma) cancer, and only half of patients diagnosed will survive more than five years. One American dies every hour from oral cancer.

The most common risk factors are tobacco use, frequent high quantity alcohol consumption, constant sunlight exposure, habitual cheek or lip biting, or poorly fitting dentures. Although most oral cancers are found in people who use tobacco and/or drink alcohol excessively, 25 percent of oral cancers occur in people who have no risk factors at all.

How Can I Prevent Oral Cancer?

Your dentist could very well be your number one soldier in the fight against oral cancer. Statistics show in about 10 percent of patients, dentists notice a problem area even before the patient notices.

How Is Oral Cancer Detected?

During your regular dental checkup, West University dentist Dr. Fleschler will examine your entire mouth, searching for a flat, painless, white or red spot or small sore.

Other signs of oral cancer can include:

A sore that bleeds easily or does not heal.
A color change of the oral tissues.
A lump, thickening, rough spot, crust, or small, eroded area.
Pain, tenderness, or numbness anywhere in the mouth or on the lips.

When to schedule a screening

Remember to schedule regular checkups for everyone in your family. Two visits per year are recommended for general dentistry care. If, between visits, you notice any unusual changes in your mouth, call Dr. Fleschler immediately at 713-660-6500. Together you and Dr. Fleschler can fight and win the battle against oral cancer.

For more information about oral cancer, support groups, or treatments, visit www.oralcancerfoundation.org. Dr. Fleschler is pleased to provide additional information to patients in the Bellaire, Meyerland, River Oaks, West University, and other areas in and around Houston.

Read what our patients are saying!

" My daughter and I have been going to Dr. Fleschler for the past few years. She is the most competent, professional dentist/doctor that I have ever worked with. She truly analyzes every situation and explains it with total clarity. Plus, she genuinely cares about her patients having great results. Her staff are equally professional - Katie, Lisa, etc. I can't say enough good things about her and her team. "

 

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