Oral Cancer

As part of Oral Cancer Awareness Month in April, our aim at Nova Dental Partners is to make you aware of the symptoms of oral cancer so that if you notice any of the signs, you can be treated early. Around 54,000 people in the US suffer from oral cancer each year, and the equivalent of one person per hour dies because of it, therefore it’s a far more common cancer than you might think.

What are the Signs of Oral Cancer? 

Oral cancer refers to cancer of your lips, mouth, or throat. If you are experiencing any of the following symptoms for more than two weeks, it’s important to give your nearest Nova Dental Partners dental office a call to be seen.

1. Aches and pains in your mouth
2. Finding it difficult to swallow or chew
3. White or red patches in your mouth
4. Loose teeth or tooth
5. Lumps in your mouth or tongue
6. Unexplained bleeding in your mouth
7. Sudden weight loss
8. Pain or numbness in your jaw or mouth

The doctors and team at Nova Dental Partners are highly trained to carry out oral cancer screenings and do so as part of your biannual check-up and teeth cleaning. Therefore, it’s critical that you don’t miss your dental exam as it could be potentially life-saving. 

It’s important to be informed of the symptoms above so that if you notice any of these you make an appointment at one of our dental offices in Woodbridge, Alexandria, or Fairfax before your scheduled appointment so that we can examine your symptoms and refer you to an oral cancer specialist right away if needed. People who take great care of their teeth, such as brushing and flossing twice a day can improve their overall oral health and also will notice any changes in their oral health promptly, so we highly recommend all our patients to have a strong daily dental routine.

Please also share this information with your friends and family. It’s important to share the knowledge of this disease that is far more prevalent than you might think. The oral cancer screening is part of your routine appointment and is completely pain-free, so there is nothing to worry about or extra appointments to arrange.

Contact one of our five offices around Northern Virginia if you would like any additional information regarding oral cancer symptoms or the oral cancer screening process. If you haven’t booked your dental exam or cleaning, don’t delay! Schedule Your Appointment today

April is oral cancer awareness month and according to the American Dental Association, it’s estimated that approximately "49,750 people will be diagnosed with oral cancer and cancers of the throat, tonsils and back of the tongue in 2017." Some of the top risk factors of oral cancer include gender, age, tobacco, alcohol, HPV virus, sunlight and diet.

The Oral Cancer Foundation says that “while smoking and tobacco use are still major risk factors, the fastest growing segment of oral cancer patients is young, healthy, nonsmoking individuals due to the connection to the HPV virus.”

Did you know that as part of a comprehensive dental exam at Nova Dental Partners in, Mount Vernon, Lake Ridge or Old Town, you can expect Dr. Kamran Tavakkoli and Dr. Kambiz Tavakkoli and your hygienist to provide you with an oral cancer screening. Our doctors will check areas of your face, neck, lips, gums, tongue, throat, and surrounding tissues for any signs of oral cancer. Personal preventative measures include smoking avoidance, limiting alcohol use, and practicing good oral hygiene.

Other services that are provided as a part of a comprehensive dental exam include:

• An examination of any diagnostic x-rays (as needed). This is essential for the early detection of tooth decay. X-rays also help our doctors determine tooth and root positions, as well as identify tumors, cysts, and bone loss.

• A gum disease evaluation, where the gums and bone around your teeth are examined for any signs of periodontal disease.

• An examination for tooth decay, where special instruments are used to check tooth surfaces for signs of decay.

• And an examination of any existing fillings, crowns, and tooth restorations.

With all these important services, it’s just another reminder why you should not skip your 6 month check-up. If you have any questions about oral cancer or would like to book your next comprehensive dental exam please don’t hesitate to get in touch with any of us at Nova Dental Partners.