Oral cancer - which comprises cancer of the mouth and of the throat - claims more than 30,000 new cases each year in the U.S., according to The Oral Cancer Foundation. In 2012, oral cancer is expected to cause 8,000 U.S. deaths.
Dr. Joseph Marvizi, one of the dentists in Long Beach, Calif., provides family dentistry to his patients, including regular oral cancer screenings. In April, Marvizi and dentists across the U.S. observe Oral Cancer Awareness Month, spreading information on oral cancer risk factors, symptoms, prevention and treatment.
Risk Factors
Tobacco is a serious risk factor for oral cancer. Eight of 10 oral cancer patients are or were previously tobacco smokers, according to a University of California, San Francisco study. Other factors are: sun exposure, alcohol consumption, a diet low in vegetables and fruits, HPV, maté and betel nut ingestion. In Asia, where betel nuts are a common snack, throat cancer is the most typical cancer among men.
Signs and Symptoms
Oral cancer symptoms are: a prolonged earache, gum bleeding, changes in voice, difficulty when swallowing, persisting throat lumps, loose teeth, weight loss, and the existence of red or white sores in the mouth or on the lips. When patients exhibit good oral hygiene - flossing daily and brushing twice a day - they should also inspect their mouths for these possible oral cancer indicators.
Prevention and Treatment
Preventing oral cancer can be as simple as visiting the dentist regularly, eating a healthy diet and avoiding alcohol and tobacco. Maintain good oral health habits, and visit the dentist often enough - the American Dental Association suggests twice yearly - to thwart any potential health problems.
The earlier oral cancer is diagnosed, the better chance patients have of survival. Doctors treat oral cancer with several methods. Depending on the cancer's progression, doctors may suggest surgery to attempt to remove the oral cancer. Patients may also undergo chemotherapy, targeted therapy and radiation.
Contact Rayhan & Marvizi DDS today to schedule a routine exam and oral cancer screening. Their dentists also offer Invisalign treatment, dental implants, general and cosmetic dentistry to Long Beach, Calif. patients.
Learn More
To learn more about preventive oral care or to schedule an appointment with the Long Beach dental specialist, Dr. Marvizi, visit http://www.marvizicosmeticdentist.com/ or call 323-931-3881.
About Us
Dr. Joseph Marvizi builds lasting relationships with his patients. Together with his staff, he provides outstanding oral care while monitoring patients for potential dental issues.
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