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.

Oral Cancer

The death rate for oral cancer is higher than that of all the cancers we hear about on a more regular basis.

The rate is so high not only because it is hard to diagnose, but due to the fact that is is discovered late in its development. It is often discovered when it has spread to another location, often times the lymph nodes of the neck.

Oral cancer screening and early detection is key to a favorable prognosis.

One of the reasons oral cancer is so dangerous is that the early stages may not be noticed by the patient. There are several types of oral cancer, but 90% are squamous cell carcinomas.

More recent data leads us to believe the fastest growing segment of oral cancer are non smokers under the age of 50.

Risk Factors

- Tobacco use
- Alcohol use
- HPV (human papilloma virus)

HPV is sexually transmitted between partners and is conclusively implicated in the increasing incidence in young non-smoking oral cancer patients. It should be noted that tobacco use in all forms is the number one risk factor in people over 50. However, for people under 50, HPV is replacing tobacco as the primary causative agent in the initiation of the disease process.

Signs & Symptoms

- white or red patch in the mouth
- small indurated ulcer
- lump or mass
- pain or difficulty swallowing
- wart-like mass
- hoarseness (lasting a long time)
- numbness is oral/facial region
- persistent ear ache

Have any sore or discolored area that does not heal within 14 days looked at by a dentist or doctor.

Patients with Dentures should also be checked yearly.

The above information is for general educational purposes only and does not constitute health or medical advice. Consult a qualified dentist to determine an individualized treatment plan.

Vitamin Deficiency and Oral Health

How do the following items relate to your oral health?

Vitamin D
Vitamin D is essential for strong bones and teeth. A deficiency can increase the risk of a jaw fracture and periodontal disease. A vitamin deficiency early in life can affect the formation of teeth.

Good sources of Vitamin D include fish liver oils , fortified milk and milk products, egg yolk and some cereals.

Folic Acid
Folic Acid, part of Vitamin B family is also an essential nutrient. A folic acid deficiency can also cause a burning sensation in your mouth. Folic acid is also very important during pregnancy.

Iron
Iron is essential for the formation of red blood cells .Iron deficiency is caused by a poor diet or medical conditions that prevent absorption of the iron you do consume. Iron deficiency can cause the same symptoms as Vitamin B deficiency.
Sources of Iron include Lean meat, liver, leafy green vegetables, beans, shellfish, and whole grain bread

Vitamin K
Vitamin K helps to make proteins that help the blood to clot. Individuals with Vitamin K deficiency may bleed excessively after an extraction or a teeth cleaning.
Foods which provide Vitamin K include, broccoli, green leafy vegetables, milk, brussel sprouts, eggs and beef.

A balanced diet is essential for overall good health. Good nutrition, along with regular medical and dental check ups, can help you to live a healthy life and avoid illness.
If you think you may be deficient in any area, see your doctor.