Oral Cancer Screening:

Any mouth sore that persists for more than a week should be examined by the dentist.

You can eliminate risk factors such as tobacco and alcohol and regularly visit your dentist. Periodic dental exams allow early detection and appropriate treatment if cancer develops.

If at any time you notice any changes in the appearance of your mouth or any of the signs and symptoms listed below, contact the dentist at once.

• A persistent sore or irritation that does not heal
• Color changes such as the development of red and/or white lesions
• Pain, tenderness or numbness anywhere in the mouth or lips
• A lump, thickening, rough spot, crust or small eroded area
• Difficulty in chewing, swallowing, speaking or moving the jaw or tongue
• Change in bite

Every hour one American dies of oral cancer; every year the disease affects an estimated 30,000 people and claims nearly 8000 lives.

According to the 2001 Surgeon General's Report on Oral Health in America, oral cancer is the 6th most common cancer in US males, making it a major public health issue.