April is Oral Cancer Awareness Month

added on: April 15, 2015

oral cancer awarenessWhenever we hear the word cancer, it’s always scary. For everyone at my Rochester dental office, we place emphasis on educating our patients on one type of cancer specifically. That type of cancer would be oral cancer.

When you think of oral cancer, you may automatically assume it’s due to tobacco use. While that’s absolutely a risk factor that goes hand in hand with oral cancer, there’re other potential causes.

Oral Cancer Risk Factors

  • Alcohol and tobacco use
  • Age
  • Lots of exposure to UV light
  • HPV
  • Poor nutrition

Obviously, the best way to totally avoid tobacco and alcohol risk of oral cancer is to avoid using alcohol and tobacco. But age is a factor, too. Most cases of oral cancer occur in people above the age of 45. If you have a job you do outdoors and have not always been careful about using sunscreen on your lips and face, you, too, may be at a higher risk.

And maybe it’s not surprising to you that a wonderful way to stave off oral cancers is to make sure you’re getting adequate nutrition from fruits and vegetables. We recommend 5 servings of each a day!

Ask your general practitioner or family doctor about HPV risks and vaccines. HPV is present in 80% of adults in this country, so don’t be afraid because early detection is key.

A lot of oral cancer cases go unnoticed, so if you experience any of the following, give us a call at our Rochester Dental Office immediately.

Signs and Symptoms

  • Sore throat that won’t go away
  • Hoarse voice
  • Pain when swallowing
  • Lump in the neck
  • Mouth sores that won’t heal

Prevention is key to ensuring a healthy, cancer-free mouth. That’s why we place so much importance on maintaining regular visits to my dental office in Rochester. Not only does routine care ensure your teeth are strong and your mouth is healthy, it also allows us to catch any potential signs of oral cancer early, increasing the chance for a successful treatment.

Been awhile since you’ve seen a dentist? Give us a call today!


Welcoming patients from Rochester, Brighton, Pittsford, and nearby communities.

About The Author
Dr. William Hurtt

Dr. William Hurtt is a highly respected dentist with over 20 years of dedicated service in the field of dentistry. With a passion for delivering exceptional patient care, Dr. Hurtt combines his extensive knowledge with the latest advancements in dental technology. He earned his Doctor of Medicine in Dentisry degree from Temple University School of Dentistry and has since been committed to continuing education to stay at the forefront of dental innovations.