Take 4 Steps to Fight Oral Cancer

In our previous post, you learned that April is National Facial Protection Month. Well, it’s also Oral Cancer Awareness Month. With that in mind, here are four suggestions that can reduce your risk of developing or fighting this disease.

Avoid Tobacco

Your best option is to never use tobacco. If you are using it now, quitting can greatly reduce your risk of developing oral and other cancers. Tobacco remains the most common cause oral cancer in the United States.

Get Vaccinated

We know vaccines are in the news for a different reason right now, but there also is a vaccine that can reduce your risk of cancer. HPV is an increasingly common cause of oral and cervical cancer. Talk to your doctor to find out if you or someone in your family is eligible for an HPV vaccine.

Check Yourself

A self-check can help you catch oral cancer in the early stages. Contact your doctor if you notice one or more of these symptoms:

  • Sores that don’t seem to get better after a couple of weeks
  • Red or white patches on the soft tissues of your mouth
  • Changes in how your teeth fit with each other
  • Pain or trouble swallowing, speaking, or eating
  • Lumps, thick area, or rough spots on the soft tissues of your mouth

Schedule a Dental Visit

Our professionals will be looking for anything suspicious when you receive a dental cleaning and exam with us. We can’t diagnose oral cancer, but we will let you know if you should make an appointment with your doctor.

Call 219-641-3422 or contact us online to plan your next visit to Van Buskirk & Krischke DDS in Crown Point, IN.