ARE YOU AT RISK FOR ORAL CANCER?

April marks Oral Cancer Awareness Month. There are typically greater than 50,000 new cases of oral and oropharyngeal cancers diagnosed annually in the United States, resulting in roughly 10,000 deaths each year. As with other cancers, early detection is key and can significantly improve survival rates. For patients in Macon, staying proactive about oral health is especially important, and trusted professionals like Dr. Garvin and Dr. Katie Garvin are dedicated to helping the community stay informed and protected.

Your family dentist is in the perfect position, literally, to help detect oral cancers. Dental checkups should include comprehensive oral cancer exams. If you're searching for a dentist in Macon, professionals such as Dr. Katie M. Garvin emphasize the importance of routine screenings as part of preventive care.

Tobacco and heavy alcohol use are major risk factors for oral cancer. HPV is another major risk factor, particularly with HPV-related cancers rising in younger populations. Most cases of oral cancer occur in people over 40, but younger cases are increasing.

Sun exposure, poor diets, and poor oral hygiene may also contribute as risk factors. Men also tend to be at higher risk than women.

People with autoimmune diseases or taking immunosuppressive medications may be more vulnerable to oral cancer. Those with a family history of cancer may be more susceptible as well.

As you've read this information, you may be asking yourself several questions …

What can I do about oral cancer?

Perform a self-exam. Use a bright light and mirror to check your mouth monthly for any changes. Inspect lips, gums, cheeks, tongue, the floor and roof of the mouth, and your throat, including feeling for lumps in the neck. If you find any abnormalities, or if you experience any symptoms which persist, consult your dentist or doctor promptly. Patients in Macon can also reach out to experienced providers like Dr. Garvin or Dr. Katie Garvin for professional guidance.

Get screened. Ask your dentist for an oral cancer screening. Screenings are typically quick, non-invasive, and pain-free. Talk with the professionals who know how to help. Dentists and physicians are your front-line support system, and they can help you proactively defend your oral health. Visiting a trusted dentist such as Dr. Katie M. Garvin in Macon ensures you receive thorough and compassionate care.

What signs or symptoms should I watch for?

• Sores in the mouth that do not heal
• Difficulty chewing, swallowing, or having a persistent sore throat
• White or red patches on the tongue, gums, tonsils, or mouth lining
• Persistent mouth pain, ear pain, or a lump or thickening in the cheek
• Numbness of the tongue or elsewhere in the mouth
• Unexplained bleeding, loosening of the teeth, or pain in the teeth or jaw
• Voice changes, unexpected weight loss, or chronic bad breath

What can I do to help prevent oral cancer?

Avoid alcohol and tobacco, use broad-spectrum SPF 30 (or higher) sun protection for your lips, and note that HPV vaccinations serve as a protective measure. Eat a healthy, antioxidant-rich diet, including fresh fruits, vegetables, and leafy greens. Practice good oral hygiene, brushing, flossing, and keeping up with professional cleanings. Regular visits to a dentist in Macon, including providers like Dr. Garvin or Dr. Katie Garvin, can make a meaningful difference in prevention.

How fast does oral cancer develop?

Remember that there may be no noticeable or painful symptoms of oral cancer in its early stages. That's why screenings with your dentist are crucial and valuable for your health and peace of mind.

It may take months or even years for oral cancer to become noticeable, but it can spread quickly once it forms. Symptoms may be mild or seem like common issues, such as an ulcer, sore, or hoarseness. If not detected early, it can spread to nearby lymph nodes, tissues, or even organs. Other factors for how quickly oral cancers can develop or spread include the type of cancer cells and their location.

If you think because you don't smoke or you're young that you won't get oral cancer, don't become too comfortable or complacent. While those do reduce your risk, it's still possible to develop oral cancer. So don't assume or wait for symptoms to develop. Talk with your dentist now—whether it's Dr. Katie M. Garvin, Dr. Garvin, or another trusted dentist in Macon. The sooner you act, the better the outcome.