Are growths in the mouth that continue to grow when they should not. They can be fast growing or not, left untreated they can invade other parts of the body. If removed late, they may lead to scarring and sometimes disfigurement.They are too often detected when they require more aggressive attention and are vastly more disturbing to deal with. Whether a dyed in the wool traditionalist or alternative therapy advocate, prevention and early detection are still the best methods to combat oral and other forms of cancer. Dr Copeland follows a rigorous, routine cancer exam policy to help detect oral cancers early. Prevention includes responsible use of radiography (x rays) and identification of risks such as, alcohol, tobacco and chemical use.An oral cancer exam is a part of the initial and subsequent periodic exam. It is both a visual and tactile exam. Brief look in the mouth is not enough to visualize the common areas oral cancer are found.It used to be that men far outnumbered the ladies, and that the older segments of the population far outnumber those under 50. The gap is now narrowing and fast. The fastest growing group of persons with oral cancer are the nonsmokers under the age of 50!
Risks that we associate with an increase of oral cancer include the old standbys tobacco and alcohol, which are considered “lifestyle” factors and physical factors such as exposure to ultraviolet radiation.
Another physical factor is exposure to x-rays. Radiographs regularly taken during examinations, and at the dental office, are safe, but remember that radiation exposure is accumulative over a lifetime. It has been implicated in several head and neck cancers. We recognize both the great diagnostic tool that radiographs provide, and the need to weigh the risk/benefit of repeated exposure. Dr Copeland judiciously recommends radiographs as necessary.
According to the Oral Cancer Foundation, one of the real dangers of oral cancer, is that in its early stages, it can go unnoticed. It can be painless, and little in the way of physical changes may be obvious. The good news is however, that your dentist or doctor can, in most cases, see or feel the precursor tissue changes, or the actual cancer while it is still very small, or in its earliest stages. Because there are so many benign tissue changes that occur normally in your mouth, and some things as simple as a bite on the inside of your cheek may mimic the look of a dangerous tissue change, it is important to have any sore or discolored area of your mouth, which does not heal within 14 days, looked at by a professional. The only way to know for sure if it is something dangerous, is to do a biopsy of the area.
Any changes in salivary flow, difficulty in swallowing, mouth sores (painful or not) which do not resolve, areas of repeated trauma, patches of white, red, or both, should not wait till your next dental exam. Please avoid second guessing, by reserving an appointment for Dr. Copeland to examine the area. We make every effort see you quickly and efficiently.