Some fifty thousand people are diagnosed with oral cancer in the United States annually, which is just one reason why we perform oral cancer screenings at Advanced Cosmetic Implant and Laser Dentistry in Seattle.
When it comes to oral cancer mortality rates, two numbers are key: 40% and 90%. 40% of individuals who receive a late-stage diagnosis die within five years. However, the survival rate for early stage diagnosis is 90%.
Oral Cavity and Oropharynx—Mouth and Throat
Cancers that start in the mouth (or oral cavity) are called oral cancers. The oral cavity is composed of the inside tissue of the mouth and cheeks, the lips, the tissue beneath the tongue, the roof of the mouth, and the front two-thirds of the tongue. “Why only two-thirds of the tongue?” you might ask. Because the back third of the tongue is considered part of the throat. Throat cancers, or oropharyngeal cancers, start in the oropharynx, the part of the mouth behind the parts considered part of the oral cavity. The oropharynx consists of the soft palate, the tonsils, and the throat.
How Are Oral Cancers Diagnosed?
Some oral cancers create symptoms which prompt the patient to see a doctor and others are found by dentists and doctors during exams. Thousands of lives could be saved every year if more people received regular screenings.
A visual oral cancer exam is relatively quick and convenient, especially as compared to other cancer screening tests such as colonoscopies and mammograms. If an abnormality is discovered during an exam, the patient is referred to an appropriate specialist for further testing and diagnosis.
Oral Cancer Risk Factors
- Tobacco use (cigarettes, chewing tobacco, or snuff)
- Heavy drinking
- Unhealthy diet
- HPV infection
- Weak immune system
- Frequent exposure to UV light (a risk factor for cancers of the lips)
At Advanced Cosmetic Implant and Laser Dentistry in Seattle, oral cancer screenings are part of every checkup. We offer state-of-the-art VELscope technology in our screenings. Make an appointment today.
Contact Advanced Cosmetic & Laser Dentistry:
206-381-3055
Location (Tap to open in Google Maps):
600 Broadway Ste 600
Seattle, WA
98122
