Brushing your teeth twice each day with fluoride toothpaste as well as remembering to floss every evening is important for removing food and bacterial deposits from your mouth. With consistency this daily routine can significantly reduce your chances of suffering from cavities and gum disease.
Having a dentist like Dr. Rakhi Jani perform a dental checkup twice a year is also important for maintaining a healthy mouth. The appointment is intended to clean away bacterial deposits while also monitoring your mouth for any developing oral health issues. It also includes a screening for early signs of oral and pharyngeal cancer.
If they are caught early treatment success rates for these serious maladies are greatly improved. The American Cancer Society notes that the 5-year relative survival rates for oral and pharyngeal cancer is 83% so long as the cancer has not spread to other parts of the body. This number drops significantly if the cancer spreads to a nearby lymph node or another part of the body.
Early symptoms of oral cancer could include a lingering pain in your mouth, an area of abnormal swelling as well as a lump in the cheek or gums. Red or white areas on your gums, tongue or tonsils are also a cause for concern.
Early signs of a developing pharyngeal cancer might include a persistent sore throat, or a feeling like something is stuck in the back of your throat. In many of these cases it can also cause discomfort when swallowing.
If you live in the Livermore, California, area, and you have noticed something abnormal in your mouth or throat, you should call 925.344.5757 to schedule a checkup and screening at Smiles Unlimited.