Every year, over 30,000 people are diagnosed with oral cancer in the U.S. Sadly, one person dies of oral cancer in America every hour. If detected early, oral cancer is 90% survivable.

At highest risk are adults over the age of 40 and tobacco users (including “smokeless” brands). Other risk factors are heavy alcohol use, viral infections, prolonged sun exposure (lip cancer) and a history of white or red patches on oral tissues. However, the American Dental Association reports that over 25% of oral cancers occur in people who do not smoke and have no other risk factors.

Warning signs of oral cancer include a mouth sore that does not heal, white or red patch of tissue, difficulty swallowing, a lump or mass in the mouth or neck, long period of hoarseness, pain or numbness in the oral region, change in the voice, or long period of ear pain.

Oral cancer is one of the most curable diseases when it is treated early. Having an exam promptly when these signs occur may enable us to conclude there. If not, at least we know the odds are in the patient’s favor. If you have any of these symptoms, please call us at (828) 274-9440 as soon as possible to arrange an examination.

Hormonal changes in a woman’s body can cause a number of symptoms. During menopause, it is not uncommon for women to have more gum sensitivity to hot or cold. Some women say they feel a burning sensation in the mouth, frequently have a dry mouth, or even detect a metallic or salty taste.

Unlike many of the other physical symptoms that menopausal women endure, these bothersome oral sensations are often easily resolved. After an examination, I typically recommend a saliva substitute that is similar to a mouth rinse to increase saliva flow.

Protecting your gums during all phases of your life is important. Never assume that unusual symptoms in your mouth are harmless. Some problems can be warning signs of much more serious issues. If you need an exam, please call (828) 274-9440 at your earliest convenience.

Men need to rededicate themselves to their oral health! Men already face shorter life spans and have higher risk for heart attacks and cancer than women. Research also reveals that periodontal (gum) disease affects more men than women with men averaging greater tooth loss as well.

This state of men’s periodontal health is mostly due to men being less vigilant overall when it comes to oral hygiene. Plus, women are three times more likely to floss on a daily basis. Research published in the Journal of Periodontology found that women are twice as likely to have dental check-ups and more likely to complete recommended treatment. Thus, it’s not surprising that the study also showed that men have higher levels of plaque, tartar, and gums that bleed when probed.

A man’s overall health can also be compromised by their lack of oral care. Research reveals a connection with several serious health problems in men that may be associated with gum disease. One of these is impotence. Men with gum disease showed a higher risk of developing impotence due to inflammation associated with periodontal disease. This inflammation has been known to damage to blood vessels, which can lead to impotence. Men younger than 30 or older than 70 are especially at risk.

A separate study found that men with a history of gum disease are 14% more likely at risk for cancer than men with healthy gums. Specifically, men with periodontal disease are 49% more likely than women to develop kidney cancer, 54% more likely to develop pancreatic cancer, and 30% more likely to develop blood cancers.

Men! Let’s do a better job at tending to your head-to-toe well-being! If you are not having 6-month check-ups and cleanings, schedule a full periodontal exam at your earliest convenience. During this time, you’ll learn what is needed to ensure your mouth is maintained at a healthy level to help you enjoy a full, healthy life.

Human papilloma virus (HPV) is the nation’s most common sexually transmitted virus. At least 50% of sexually active people will have genital HPV at some time in their lives. Although awareness of HPV risk is growing, it is not commonly known that HPV can spread through oral sex and linked to diseases in the mouth.

A particular type of HPV, the high risk HPV 16, is found in cancer of the tonsils, vocal cords, base of the tongue, and oesophagus. A low risk HPV that causes genital warts may also be found in some cases of cancer of the vocal cords.

Vaccines are available and many doctors are encouraging sexually active patients to be vaccinated. For those who are not vaccinated against HPV, condoms can lower the risk of developing HPV-related diseases, such as genital warts and cervical cancer. But, since HPV can infect areas that are not covered by a condom, the risk remains high for many.