April is Oral Cancer Awareness Month

A healthy smile goes beyond teeth and gums.  Oral cancer can attack the entire mouth, and oropharyngeal cancer is confined to the base of the tongue, soft palate, tonsils, and back of the throat.  Regardless of the type of cancer, the American Cancer Society estimates that 58,450 people will get oral cavity or oropharyngeal cancer this year, and 12,230 people will die of these cancers.  Tobacco, alcohol use, HPV infection, sun exposure, and poor oral hygiene all contribute to the risks.  The importance of regular visits to your dental office is extremely important for early detection and overall health.