Oral Cancer

Oral cancer is one of the most common cancers today and has one of the lowest survival rates, with thousands of new cases being reported each year. Fewer than half of all people diagnosed with oral cancer are ever cured.

Moreover, people with many forms of cancer can develop complications—some of them chronic and painful—from their cancer treatment.  These include dry mouth and overly sensitive teeth, as well as accelerated tooth decay.

If oral cancer is not treated in time, it could spread to other facial and neck tissues, leading to disfigurement and pain.

Older adults over the age of 40 (especially men) are most susceptible to developing oral cancer, but people of all ages are at risk.

Oral cancer can occur anywhere in the mouth, but the tongue appears to be the most common location. Other oral structures could include the lips, gums and other soft palate tissues in the mouth.

Warning Signs

In general, early signs of oral cancer usually occur in the form of lumps, patchy areas and lesions, or breaks, in the tissues of the mouth. In many cases, these abnormalities are not painful in the early stages, making even self-diagnosis difficult.

Here are some additional warning signs:

  • Hoarseness or difficulty swallowing.
  • Unusual bleeding or persistent sores in the mouth that won't heal.
  • Lumps or growths in other nearby areas, such as the throat or neck.

If a tumor is found, surgery will generally be required to remove it. Some facial disfigurement could also result.

Prevention

Prevention is the key to staving off oral cancer. One of the biggest culprits is tobacco and alcohol use. Certain kinds of foods and even overexposure to the sun have also been linked to oral cancer. Some experts believe certain oral cancer risk factors are also hereditary.

A diet rich in fruits and vegetables is one of the best defenses against oral cancer. Maintaining good oral hygiene, and regular dental checkups, are highly recommended.

Our Location

Find us on the map

Hours of Operation

Our Regular Schedule

Primary Location

Monday:

Closed

Tuesday:

9:00 am-6:00 pm

Wednesday:

10:00 am-7:00 pm

Thursday:

9:00 am-6:00 pm

Friday:

9:00 am-3:00 pm

Saturday:

8:00 am-2:00 pm

Sunday:

Closed

Testimonials

    I just have to say that dr. moskowitz is an excellent dentist and the entire staff at healthy smiles is first rate. dr. moskowitz is an ultimate professional , using the most up to date equipment and catering to all of the patient's needs. also, janet, the dental assistant and michelle, the hygienist, are also first rate, making a trip to healthy smiles an ultimately rewarding experience. having moved around a lot i have had to experience many dentists. without a doubt dr, moskowitz and the staff at healthy smiles are by far the best.

    Marty2002

    I've been to many dentist over the years but dr m is by far the best i've seen. he truly cares about his patients and tries to make them as comfortable as possible. his staff, especially janet, are top shelf and also follow his lead as a dentist that cares. if your looking for a factory style dentist, hes not for you, but if want personal and caring service i highly recommend this practice.

    PitBill

    I have been going to healthy smiles for many years and cannot praise it enough. the entire staff(dr. moskowitz,janet, michelle, marge, robin and deanna) are all highly professional and extremely friendly. every time that i have been there i've been treated with first rate care as well as professional courtesy. i recently had to have a new bridge. i have gagging reflux issues and was very concerned about going through this extensive procedure. my fears ended up being totally unfounded. dr. moskowitz and janet both did an excellent job, showing compassion and helping me every step of the way. they are all truly tops in their field.

    Irish55