Oral Cancer Awareness Month

April is Oral Cancer Awareness Month and according to the Oral Cancer Foundation, more than 49,000 people will be diagnosed with oral cancer this year. With advances in modern screening technology, we are now able to pinpoint the start of a potential problem much earlier in its evolution. The ability to do so is extremely important in being able to treat any issues prior to them becoming a major irreversible problem.

An oral cancer screening is often completed with an ultraviolet light or similar device that allows us to view potential problems that can’t always be detected by the human eye under normal conditions.

“Numerous people die each year from oral cancer despite not being exposed to the obvious risk factors: smoking, chewing tobacco, and excessive alcohol intake. The prevalence of the HPV virus makes everyone susceptible. Screening with tools such as Velscope are the most effective diagnostic modalities available today. They make early detection possible. When we can treat the problems small, the treatments are easier and more effective” said, John G. Campi III, DMD.

Early detection can save lives, so all month long Campi Dentale will be helping raise awareness by doing oral cancer screenings at their office and donating $10 per screening to Mary’s Place by the Sea. An appointment is required and can be easily made by calling the office at (732) 449-2228.

Symptoms include persistent red ulcers, sudden tooth mobility without apparent cause, unusual oral bleeding and prolonged hoarseness. Risk factors and certain lifestyle choices can have a great impact on the health of tissues and your overall health in the mouth. If you are a heavy drinker, smoker, have a history of cancer, or have HPV, please get regular screenings when you visit the dentist.

The Doctors at Campi Dental are trained to screen for common oral cancer symptoms and can answer any of your questions on April 12th at 10 am when they go live on Facebook with Mary’s Place by the Sea co-founder, Michele Gannon. They will also be holding an event on April 26th with Mary’s Place by the Sea where you can receive more information on all types of cancers and how you can take part in your healing when diagnosed.