Dr. Ali feels that it is extremely important that you understand the severity of having an oral cancer screening at least once a year.

Oral cancer starts in the cells of the mouth, tongue, or throat. Oral cancer screening is usually a routine part of a dental examination. In this exam, Dr. Ali or one of our professional hygienist’s will feel for lumps or irregular tissue changes in your neck, head, face, and inside your mouth.

Dr. Ali will also look for sores or discoloured tissue in your mouth.

As you age, your chance of developing oral cancer increases and is greatest after the age of 45, according to the Canadian Cancer Society. The good news is that oral cancer is rare in children and young adults. Also, according to the Canadian Cancer Society, in 2020, 5,400 Canadians were diagnosed with oral cancer of which 1,500 Canadians died from oral cancer.

Oral cancer symptoms include a sore on your lip or in your mouth that does not heal. A lump on your lip or in your mouth or throat. A white or red patch on your gums, tongue or lining of your mouth. Unusual bleeding, pain or numbness in your mouth. A sore throat that does not go away, or a feeling that something is caught in your throat. Difficulty or pain with chewing or swallowing. Swelling of your jaw causing your dentures to fit poorly or become uncomfortable. And finally, a change in your voice and/or pain in your ear.

If you suffer from any of these symptoms, it is suggested you see your family physician, or visit Stouffville Family Dentistry for an examination.

It is imperative that you visit Stouffville Family Dentistry for an oral cancer screening. If caught early, this disease can be beaten.

If you have any questions about oral cancer or the importance of having Dr. Ali screen you for this, please feel free to contact Stouffville Family Dentistry at your earliest convenience.