Oral Cancer Awareness: Knowledge is Power

April is Oral Cancer Awareness Month! At Sala Family Dentistry in Reno, NV, we are committed to helping you achieve optimal oral health, which means addressing this often-overlooked aspect of our oral health. Oral cancer, which can occur in the mouth and throat, is more common than many might assume, and awareness is the first step toward prevention. Our goal is to equip our community with the facts, preventative strategies, and the importance of dental health in the fight against oral cancer.

Facts About Oral Cancer

Prevalence: Oral cancer accounts for approximately 3% of all cancers diagnosed annually in some countries. It can affect the lips, tongue, cheeks, floor of the mouth, hard and soft palate, sinuses, and pharynx (throat).
Risk Factors: Tobacco use (including smoking and chewing tobacco), heavy alcohol consumption, excessive sun exposure to the lips, and a human papillomavirus (HPV) infection are significant risk factors.
Symptoms: Early signs include persistent sores in the mouth that do not heal, unexplained bleeding, numbness, lumps, or rough spots, as well as changes in how dentures fit or difficulty swallowing.

Preventing Oral Cancer

Avoid Tobacco: Stopping the use of tobacco products can significantly reduce the risk.
Limit Alcohol: Reducing alcohol consumption can decrease the risk of developing oral cancer.
Sun Protection: Using lip balm with SPF and limiting direct sun exposure can protect the lips.
HPV Vaccination: The HPV vaccine is effective in preventing infections that could lead to oral cancer.
Healthy Diet: A diet rich in fruits and vegetables may have a protective effect against oral cancer.

The Sala Family Dentistry Approach

Our approach to Oral Cancer Awareness Month—and indeed, our approach year-round—is to focus not only on the treatment of dental issues but also on the comprehensive health and well-being of our patients. Regular dental checkups at Sala Family Dentistry serve as a vital line of defense, enabling early detection of oral cancer symptoms. Our team is skilled in identifying the early signs of oral cancer, ensuring that any potential issues can be addressed promptly and effectively.

In addition to cancer screenings, our dental checkups involve professional cleanings that target hard-to-reach areas, reducing the risk of oral diseases. We also offer personalized advice on maintaining optimal oral hygiene, tailored to each patient’s unique needs. This personalized care is at the heart of our practice and is key to preventing oral cancer.

Schedule Your Appointment At Sala Family Dentistry in Reno, NV!

This April, we urge the Reno community to join us in raising awareness and taking proactive steps towards oral health and cancer prevention. Schedule your checkup, inquire about HPV vaccinations, and embrace a healthier lifestyle. Together, we can make a difference in the fight against oral cancer.