Dr. Arthur A. Kezian DDS | Catching Oral Cancer Early

Oral cancer is one type of cancer that is not regularly talked about. In the United States, an estimated 51,000 people would have been diagnosed with oral cancer last year. This number is far too big to not be discussed more often; and what is worse is that most cases are not caught in time. Early detection can boost a person’s survival rate by about 80-90%. With this statistic, it is important to make sure you are checked for signs and symptoms of oral cancer routinely at your dental visits! 

Signs and Symptoms:

One of the most probable reasons as to why this cancer can go undetected is that a lot of times, no pain is associated with it. This means that patients are not urged to go for a check-up. According to the Oral Cancer Foundation, any of these signs or symptoms should urge you to have a check-up with your dentist. If you experience difficulty swallowing or chewing, or difficulty moving your tongue or jaw you should call your dentist to schedule an oral cancer screening. If you find a lump on your cheek, a white or red patch inside your mouth, or a sore inside the mouth that does not heal within a week or two, these would also be signs to get your check-up scheduled. Sometimes even numbness of the mouth or swelling of the jaw can be a sign for you to make that appointment. 

Dental Check-Ups:

Now just because you have these symptoms does not necessarily mean you have oral cancer, but because they are the biggest signs, it is very important that you get checked! Dr. Arthur A. Kezian recommends keeping up with your 6-month check-ups to be able to catch anything early on. By keeping an eye on your oral care every 6 months, a dentist can detect things at early stages which in turn can help your chances of fighting cancer! 

Call Your Dentist:

If you haven’t made your routine 6-month appointment with your dentist yet, it is time for you to do so. Pick up the phone and schedule your appointment. It is that simple. You will be keeping up with your oral health care, and that’s something extremely important! 

Dr. Arthur A. Kezian DDS & Staff want to make sure you and your loved ones take care of your oral health, and they will provide you the best service they can to keep you happy. Call their office today to schedule a check-up; trust us, it is always worth it.  

Dr. Arthur A. Kezian DDS 443 N. Larchmont Blvd Los Angeles, CA 90004 (323) 467-2777