Detecting Oral Cancer

Lenox Hill Oral Cancer | Upper West Side Cosmetic Dentistry

Our dentist is interested in more than just your teeth. Your entire mouth is under our care. That’s why, during your checkups, our dentist will check for any signs of oral cancer. The American Dental Association has recommendations to help your dentist check for signs of oral cancer. If any symptoms are present, you will probably be seen again in a few weeks and if symptoms persist, be referred to a specialist.

Our dentist look for:

• Red or white patch
• Sore that bleeds easily or doesn’t heal
• Thick or hard spot
• Lumps
• Rough or crusted area
• Numbness
• Pain
• Change in the way your teeth fit together

Be sure to tell our dentist about any of these symptoms right away.

You can avoid many of the risk factors associated with oral cancer. Smoking puts you at risk, as does drinking more than two drinks a day. Even smokeless tobacco products can increase the risk of oral lesions. A diet low in fruits and vegetables also seems to increase the chances of oral cancer. Excessive exposure to the sun can cause lip cancer. It’s best to avoid these behaviors to decrease your risk, and be sure to visit our dental office regularly.