Oral Cancer Screening

Oral cancer is a dangerous yet somewhat preventable type of cancer. It kills more people nationwide than either cervical or skin (melanoma) cancer, and only half of all patients diagnosed with it survive more than five years. The most common risk factors for oral cancer are tobacco use, frequent high quantity alcohol consumption, constant sunlight exposure, habitual cheek or lip biting, or poorly fitting dentures. Although 80-90% of oral cancers are found in people who use tobacco and/or drink alcohol excessively, 25% of oral cancers occur in people with no risk factors.

A dental visit is one way to detect oral cancer. During regular check-ups, we examine your mouth for flat, painless, white or red spots or small sores. Other signs of oral cancer include:

• A sore that bleeds easily or does not heal
• A color change of the oral tissues
• A lump, thickening, rough spot, crust or small, eroded area
• Pain, tenderness or numbness anywhere in the mouth or on the lips.

Your family deserves healthy smiles designed for a lifetime. Call Aesthetic & Family Dentistry of Washington today to schedule your consultation or checkup with Dr. Obholz. Our Washington, DC dental office is convenient for patients who live or work in the American University, Georgetown, Tenley Circle, or Embassy Row area.