It may be rare to find cases of oral cancer among young patients, but most dentists don’t take chances, even when working with children and teenagers. As a serious form of cancer that affects more than 53,000 people each year, oral healthcare professionals believe it is necessary not only to raise awareness but also to ensure the health and well-being of each person who sits in their treatment chair, including children. Keep reading to learn 3 facts about oral cancer every parent should know.
Fact #1: Certain Oral Cancers Are Increasing Among Younger Patients
While oral cancers attributed to smoking and tobacco use are decreasing in the U.S., other forms are steadily rising, especially those found toward the back of the mouth, or oropharyngeal cancers. The reason is primarily due to HPV infections, which are sexually transmitted. Remaining dormant for years or even decades after exposure, many patients remain unaware of their exposure.
In fact, it is believed that there are 200 strains of HPV, and an estimated 40 million Americans have some form of it. This is why the Centers for Disease Control & Prevention (CDC) strongly encourages individuals 26 years of age and younger to receive the HPV vaccination.
Fact #2: Early Detection Can Save Lives
Biannual dental checkups and cleanings allow your dentist to do more than check for cavities, gum disease, and damage. They also include time spent examining your child’s soft oral tissues and facial structures for any abnormalities, including:
- An oral sore that is not healing and has been present for a few weeks
- A white or red patch in their mouth
- A lump or growth inside their mouth or in their neck
- Difficulty swallowing
- Sounding hoarse when trying to talk
- Complaints of a sore throat
Detecting these problems early can ensure that primary care physicians are alerted to the situation and can recommend additional testing if necessary. Doing so increases the chances of survival.
Fact #3: Oral Cancer is Not To Be Taken Lightly
While the likelihood that your child will develop oral or oropharyngeal cancer remains slim, it’s important never to take it lightly. During your child’s appointment, their pediatric dentist will complete a screening that takes only minutes and often requires no more than a visual examination.
With the Oral Cancer Foundation claiming it is the sixth leading cause of cancer deaths in the U.S., maintaining your child’s biannual visits remains more important than ever. By allowing their dentist to check for anything out of the ordinary, your child can get the additional help they need to ensure successful treatment and positive long-term results.
Oral cancer doesn’t discriminate. Regardless of your child’s age, allowing them to undergo an oral cancer screening is a beneficial component of every dental visit.
About the Practice
Comprising several board-certified pediatric dentists, Treehouse Pediatric Dentistry provides high-quality, first-rate care to children of all ages. Offering comprehensive dental checkups and cleanings, including oral cancer screenings, we are on the front lines of early detection. If you would like to discuss your child’s oral health and overall well-being, visit our website or call (413) 584-7773.