Get Screened for Oral Cancer
One person dies from oral cancer every hour of every day. In Illinois alone, more than 17 of every 100,000 people had oral cancer between 2007 and 2011. In Elgin zip codes alone, there were 59 cases during five years, and in Cook and Kane counties combined, there were more than 3,300.
The professional experience of Dr. Holevas and his team has proved that early detection of oral cancer is key to survival. The health department of the state of Illinois agrees writing in a widely distributed oral health publication that, “early detection has the potential to improve the prognosis and quality of life.” Only 40 percent of oral cancer cases are found early, the report reads. Sadly, just more than half of people who get oral cancer survive. If detected early, however, oral cancer has a high survival rate.
The Human Papilloma Virus is associated with oral cancer and has caused the instances of this deadly cancer to rise. Recent studies show that 25% of young adults have HPV, and we are seeing an increase in women and young adults diagnosed with oral cancer.
Velscope Diagnostic Technology for Oral Cancer
These are troubling statistics and reflect an important area of your health that Dr. Holevas and his dental office do not take lightly. The staff in Dr. Holevas’ office is trained to look for signs of early changes in the mouth. Using an advanced technology called Velscope, they are able to see changes in tissue that are not visible to the naked eye. This is vitally important, because often oral cancers aren’t diagnosed until they have spread to other areas of the body, such as the lymph nodes. If you get oral cancer related to HPV, it could be hidden at the back of the mouth, tonsils, and the base of the tongue – areas you aren’t likely to inspect on your own very often.
Dental Detection Methods for Oral Cancer
- Manual Screening
- Velscope
- Brush Test
An advanced oral cancer screening is recommended at least once a year, but due to recent increase in incidence of oral cancer, more and more dentists and dental hygienists do a conventional cancer screening for all of their patients at each prophylactic/maintenance visit. However, if you have any of the blow listed symptoms, don’t wait until the next day. Call us immediately!
- White or red patches in your mouth
- A mouth sore that won’t heal
- Bleeding in your mouth
- Loose teeth
- Problems or pain with swallowing
- A lump in your neck
- Earaches
Visit our Office for a Checkup
If you have any symptoms of oral cancer or even if you’re just due for a checkup and cleaning, we would love to see you. We have the tools and expertise you need to be confident that your oral health is in good shape. Call our offices at 847-742-4214.
