April Is Oral Cancer Awareness Month

Did you know that each time Dr. Dersh does an exam at your check-up visit that he is screening you for oral cancer? Early detection is key in the treatment of any cancer as we all know. It is no different for oral cancer, which comprises the largest group of the head and neck cancers. Two of the most common known causes are the use of tobacco and alcohol & HPV16(human papilloma virus version 16). There is also a small percentage of the population who develop oral cancer due to unknown cause, thought to be genetic.

It is important to see your dentist on a regular basis not only for a cleaning and cavity detection but also for a regular check for any abmormalities in and around your mouth. When diagnosed early, the survival rate from an oral cancer is 80 to 90%. If you have any changes in the appearance of your mouth or lips, please call for an appointment: Your health depends on it.

The above information is for general information and educational purposes only and does not constitute health or medical advice. Consult a qualified dentist or physician to determine an individualized treatment plan and for an accurate medical diagnosis and advice. Although every reasonable effort has been made to ensure the contents of this educational piece is current, accurate and complete, neither David A Dersh, D.M.D., PA nor any other party involved in the publication of this paper make guarantees of any kind to it's accuracy, merchantability or fitness for a particular purpose and are not responsible for errors or omissions of any kind.

Effects of Chemotherapy on Your Mouth

If you are going to be starting chemotherapy, you should visit your dentist before your treatment begins. Ideally, 1 month before so that you can get any problems taken care of. If time does not permit, at least have a cleaning and exam. Inform the dentist that you are beginning treatment.

Chemotherapy drugs kill cancer cells and can also kill some normal cells, even in your mouth. You may experience side effects from the chemotherapy drugs on your gums, tongue and the lining of your mouth.

Some of these side effects include:

• Painful gums and mouth
• Dry mouth
• Painful tongue
• Changes in taste

Here are some tips on oral care during your treatments:

• Keep your mouth moist with water and /or sugarless gum.
• Brush and floss daily using fluoride tooth paste and a soft brush
• Don't use mouthwash that contains alcohol
• Rinse with warm salt water -1/4 tsp salt, 6 oz warm water
• Avoid foods that are sharp, crunchy and spicy
• Limit citrus juice, the acid can irritate your mouth
• Avoid alcohol and cigarettes

The above information is for general information and educational purposes only and does not constitute health or medical advice. Consult a qualified dentist or physician to determine an individualized treatment plan and for an accurate medical diagnosis and advice. Although every reasonable effort has been made to ensure the contents of this educational piece is current, accurate and complete, neither David A Dersh, D.M.D., PA nor any other party involved in the publication of this paper make guarantees of any kind to it's accuarcy, merchantability or fitness for a particular purpose and are not responsible for errors or omissions of any kind.

Burning Mouth Syndrome

Burning Mouth Syndrome (BMS) causes chronic burning pain in your mouth. This pain may affect the tongue, lips, gums, insidde of cheeks, roof of your mouth, or widespread areas of the mouth.

Symptoms of BMS can include:

• Burning sensation
• Sore mouth
• Loss of taste
• Increased thirst
• Dry mouth
• Taste changes(metallic taste)
• Mouth pain that gets worse as the day progresses
• Tingling or numb sensation in the mouth or on the tip of the tongue

Possible causes of BMS:

• Lack of estrogen
  
• GERD (Reflux disease)
  
• Zinc or B vitaman deficiency
  
• Damage to tongue and mouth nerves
  
• Iron deficiency
  
• Hypothyroidism
  
• Oral Cancer
  
• Sensitivity to food additives, dyes, fragrances or flavors
  

Treatments for BMS can include:

• Vitamin therapy
• Black Cohosh ( herbal remedy)
• Hormone replacement therapy
• Medications for pain

If you experience any of the above symptoms, see your Dentist for a complete evaluation.

The above information is for general information and educational purposes only and does not constitute health or medical advice. Consult a qualified dentist or physician to determine an individualized treatment plan and for an accurate medical diagnosis and advice. Although every reasonable effort has been made to ensure the contents of this educational piece is current, accurate and complete, neither David A Dersh, D.M.D., PA nor any other party involved in the publication of this paper make guarantees of any kind to it's accuarcy, merchantability or fitness for a particular purpose and are not responsible for errors or omissions of any kind.