CAPITAL REGION, NY (WRGB) — It’s recommended to get your teeth cleaned twice a year, according to dentistry professionals.
What some may not realize- it’s just as important to get screened for any oral cancers.
April is Oral Cancer Awareness month and the New York State Dental Association (NYSDA) says it’s one of the best ways to protect your health.
Dentists add it’s painless and can be done during your cleaning.
“The exam itself is we take gauze or a mirror and we’re looking all around the mouth for any kind of suspicious lesions, any discoloration, the patient saying they have pain on something,” said NYSDA President, Dr. Maurice Edwards.
NYSDA takes the month of April to spread awareness and education about oral cancer and the importance of early detection, which can lead to better outcomes.
Dr. Edwards explains, “If you have a tooth and it’s cancer, if it’s stage 1 or 2 we can probably just take the tooth out and we’re done. If it’s stage 2-3 or 3-4; instead of just taking that one tooth you’re taking one or two teeth in front, one or two teeth behind it and the bone underneath it.”
He adds, the later the stages, the more aggressive treatment will likely be including surgery, radiation and chemotherapy.
Top risks for oral cancer include HPV, tobacco in all forms, excessive alcohol consumption, gender, and age.
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