(CHANDLER)– According to the Oral Cancer Foundation, more than 43,000 Americans will be diagnosed with oral cancer this year. It kills one person every hour and young people make up the fastest-growing segment of the oral cancer population.
“While the most common patient has a history of tobacco or alcohol use, we are seeing more young, non-smokers exposed to the HPV 16 virus, the same one responsible for most cervical cancers, which is also the leading cause of mouth cancers,” says Chandler Dentist J. Philipp.
Like breast exams and prostrate screenings, oral screenings are an effective way to spot and treat cancer at its early, curable stages. In honor of Oral Cancer Awareness Month, Dr. Philipp is sharing critical information and offering the latest painless screening that takes just 60-120 seconds.
The test can lead to detection much earlier than the following signs and symptoms, which often appear in later stages.
- Sore or irritation that doesn’t go away
- Red or white patches
- Pain, tenderness or numbness in mouth or lips
- Difficulty chewing, swallowing, speaking or moving your jaw or tongue
- Change in the way your teeth fit together when you close mouth
Dr. Philipp will donate a portion of screening proceeds to the Oral Cancer Society, a national non-profit dedicated to prevention, research and patient support. www.oralcancer.org
About J. Philipp Centers for Family and Cosmetic Dentistry
Located at 3230 S. Gilbert Road, Ste. 4, in Chandler, J. Philipp Centers for Family and Cosmetic Dentistry was founded by Justin Philipp, DMD. The successful practice has won numerous awards and offers a wide variety of quality dental services. Visit www.jphilipp.com to learn more.