UNDERSTANDING THE CAUSES AND RISKS OF ORAL CANCER
These conditions should be addressed as soon as possible, as they are some of the earliest signs of oral cancer. If you notice these symptoms in your mouth lasting longer than a 2–3-week period, contact a dental professional immediately.
smokers, especially those over 50 years of age. However, many younger and nonsmoking and nondrinking people are diagnosed with cancer due to HPV. This virus is known to lead to oropharyngeal cancer, which involves the base of the tongue and tonsillar tissues in the throat. Oral cancer doesn’t only impact the throat; it can also occur on the lips, tongue, roof and floor of the mouth, and inner lining of the cheeks.
SCREENING
At Beaumont Family Dentistry, we can screen for oral cancer using the VELscope. This handheld device is sensitive to any abnormal changes in the tissue of the mouth and throat. It sends out bright blue light to inspect that tissue, and any unhealthy or harmed tissue will disrupt the natural fluoresce patterns the light creates inside the mouth. Often, screening with this device can detect the earliest stages of oral cancers, enabling quick action to prevent its spread. Beaumont Family Dentistry offers VELscope screening to all our patients. At your next dental appointment, ask about getting a screening.
SYMPTOMS
It’s important to be aware of any unusual changes in the mouth, especially if a condition lasts longer than a week. Many of the symptoms to be aware of are:
Our team at Beaumont Family Dentistry knows how important it is for our patients to stay well informed about oral cancer and the dangers it imposes. Understanding the causes, risks, and symptoms, as well as the technology we use to catch those early signs of oral cancer, is instrumental to your overall health.
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Sores or irritation
Red or white patches
Pain, tenderness, or numbness
Lumps
CAUSES AND RISKS
Loose teeth
Difficulties swallowing
The people at the highest risk for oral cancer are those who have been heavy drinkers and
INSPIRATION
Nothing is more comforting than a big bowl of cacio e pepe , which is Italian for cheese and pepper. This dish combines a wholesome flavor profile with fresh, seasonal ingredients to satisfy any craving. SPRINGTIME CACIO E PEPE
INGREDIENTS
DIRECTIONS
1. Heat oven to 425 F. 2. In a large pot, cook spaghetti until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of water before draining and put spaghetti in a covered pot to keep warm. 3. Line a 15x10-inch baking pan with foil and toss in asparagus and olive oil. 4. Cook asparagus for 5–7 minutes and sprinkle with lemon zest. 5. Add 3/4 cup of the reserved water, Parmesan cheese, and pepper to the spaghetti. Stir until creamy. 6. Toss in asparagus and arugula before serving.
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6 oz multigrain spaghetti 8 oz fresh asparagus, cut into 1-inch pieces
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1 tbsp olive oil 1 tsp lemon zest
1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
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1/2 tsp black pepper 1 cup baby arugula
Inspired by Eating Well
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