Oral Cancer Awareness Month: Join the Fight for Early Detection

Keeping Your Smile Healthy: The Importance of Oral Cancer Awareness

Did you know a quick, painless check could significantly impact your future health? This Oral Cancer Awareness Month, Dr. Stevie Roberts and her dental office in Kirkland, WA, are dedicated to helping you stay informed and protected.

Dentiste serves Kirkland and neighboring communities like Bellevue and Woodinville. We invite you to learn more. Call (425) 284-0515 to schedule your routine oral cancer screening.

Oral Cancer Is More Common Than You Think

Oral cancer, which includes cancers of the lips, tongue, cheeks, floor of the mouth, hard and soft palate, sinuses, and pharynx (throat), can affect anyone. While certain lifestyle factors can increase your risk, it’s crucial to understand that even individuals with healthy habits can develop this disease.

Factors that can elevate the likelihood of developing oral cancer include:

• Tobacco Use: Smoking cigarettes, cigars, pipes, and using smokeless tobacco are serious risk factors.
• Excessive Alcohol Consumption: Heavy and frequent alcohol use can increase the risk.
• Human Papillomavirus (HPV): Certain strains of HPV are linked to a growing number of oral cancers, particularly those occurring in the back of the throat and tonsils.
• Age: The risk of oral cancer generally increases with age.
• Sun Exposure: Prolonged exposure to the sun can increase the risk of lip cancer.
• Weakened Immune System: Individuals with compromised immune systems may be at higher risk.
• Poor Nutrition: Some studies suggest a link between a diet low in fruits and vegetables and an increased risk of oral cancer.

To put it in perspective, each year in the United States, tens of thousands of people receive a new diagnosis of oral cavity or pharyngeal cancer. While these numbers might seem noteworthy, the reality is that many individuals aren’t fully aware of this potential health concern. That’s why Dr. Roberts and our team encourage patients to undergo oral cancer screenings at their biannual dental checkups.

Importance of Regular Oral Cancer Screenings

Early Detection, Better Outcomes

Finding signs of oral cancer or precancerous changes early significantly increases the likelihood of successful treatment. When detected in its initial stages, oral cancer is often more manageable to treat.

Peace of Mind

Knowing that a trained professional is regularly examining your mouth for potential issues can provide valuable peace of mind. It’s a proactive step that helps you stay informed about your oral health.

Non-Invasive and Quick

Screening for oral cancer signs is typically quick and comfortable and doesn’t involve invasive procedures. It’s a simple addition to your regular dental checkup.

Identifying Subtle Changes

Dental professionals are trained to spot subtle changes in the mouth that you might not notice. These early indicators can be crucial for timely intervention.

Oral Cancer Awareness Month at Dentiste, the Best Dental Office Near You

Just like supporting our local businesses in downtown Kirkland, prioritizing your health within our community is essential. This April, for Oral Cancer Awareness Month, Dentiste, led by Dr. Stevie Roberts, offers comprehensive oral cancer screenings in Kirkland, WA. We’re easily accessible from neighborhoods like Finn Hill and Kingsgate, making it convenient for you to take this step.

Why Dentiste? Dr. Roberts and her team are invested in the health of our Kirkland community, offering experienced care close to home. Schedule your screening today by calling (425) 284-0515. Let’s keep Kirkland smiling!

Preventing Oral Cancer with Dr. Roberts and At Home

During your dental visits, Dr. Roberts and our team can provide personalized advice based on your risk factors. This might include:

• Risk Assessment: Discussing your lifestyle habits, such as tobacco and alcohol use, and helping you understand your potential risk levels.
• HPV Awareness: Providing information about the link between HPV and oral cancer and discussing preventative measures.
• Identifying Potential Issues: Carefully examining your mouth during screenings and bringing any areas of concern to your attention for further evaluation.
• Guidance on Oral Hygiene: Reinforcing the importance of good oral hygiene practices, which contribute to oral health.

Protecting Your Smile Year Round: Discover the Importance of Oral Pathology

Dr. Roberts and our friendly team are here to answer your questions and ensure you receive the highest quality of care. We proudly serve individuals and families in Kirkland and neighboring communities like Bellevue and Woodinville.

If you have any concerns about oral cancer or would like to schedule your next dental checkup, which includes an oral cancer screening, please don’t hesitate to contact our dental office at (425) 284-0515.