Do you know the signs and symptoms of oral cancer? Because oral cancer screenings detect oral cancer in over 40,000 Americans every year, it is important to always make sure you have your annual cancer screenings to test for the horrible disease. Fortunately, a cancer screening can indicate if the cancer is present.

When looking for signs of oral cancer, always be sure to inspect your mouth and gums area. If you notice any strange markings, an irregular crust, erosions, or blotchy patches, oral cancer may be to blame. Furthermore, if any wounds or cuts have not fully healed after two weeks, or if you’ve experienced drastic weight loss, come in for a screening.

Oral cancer often presents itself as an inhibitor of your oral health functions as well. If you’re struggling eating and chewing food, it may be caused by oral cancer. Furthermore, limited functions with speaking, opening and closing your mouth, the presence of malocclusions, the feeling of a lump in your throat, or a persistent sore throat are all known symptoms of oral cancer.

If you would like an oral cancer screening, stop by your dentist office. In addition, if you would like Dr. Greg Ortman and our team at Ortman Family Dentistry to bring you in for an oral exam or professional cleaning, please contact our dentist office in Lafayette, Indiana, by calling us at 765-447-0322. Make time to improve your smile for lasting happiness.