Oral cancers may form anywhere in the oral cavity including on the lips, tongue, and soft oral tissues. Certain lifestyle choices significantly increase the risk for oral cancer. Common risk factors such as using tobacco and heavy alcohol use contribute to oral cancer. Patients who are carriers of HPV or those who have had excessive UV exposure are also at risk. However, nearly one-fourth of patients who developed oral cancer had no known risk factors.
The American Dental Association recommends that patients schedule annual oral examinations and avoid lifestyle choices that contribute to oral cancer. In addition to looking for periodontal disease at your regular oral examination, Dr. Kania will also screen patients for signs of oral cancer by looking for abnormal lesions, discoloration, and lumps in the mouth. She will also feel for any lumps on the neck, face, and head. Oral cancer screenings are quick and minimally invasive.
To schedule an examination with Dr. Kania, contact our Encinitas periodontist office at (760) 642-0711. We serve patients from Encinitas, Del Mar, San Marcos, Rancho Santa Fe, Carlsbad, Oceanside, and the neighboring San Diego areas.
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