The targeted demographics of oral cancer are shifting. Men are at a higher risk of developing the disease, but the age at which doctors are diagnosing it is decreasing. Once a cancer mostly seen in men 40 and over, dentists are now seeing it in patients as young as in their 20s. Oral cancer is a growing health concern in the United States. Men are generally at a higher risk of developing oral cancer, but women can develop oral cancer as well. Medford, NJ dentist Dr. Parnaik provides oral cancer screenings for all of his patients.

Why has there been an increase of oral cancer in younger people?

Studies point to the spread of the HPV virus. Exposure to HPV can increase the chances of developing cancer. If you have been exposed to or diagnosed with HPV it is even more essential to be screened for oral cancer at least twice a year. Dr. Parnaik provides oral screenings at your biannual dental check ups.

What are the risk factors for oral cancer?

• Gender: Men are more likely to develop oral cancer than women.
• Tobacco Use: Smokers, Vapers, Tobacco Chewers have an increased risk of oral cancer.
• Exposure to HPV: if you are exposed to HPV you may be at an increased chance of developing oral cancer.
• Your age: Patients over 40 have increased chance of developing oral cancer.

What are some signs I may have oral cancer

• Red or white patches
• Small sores, or thickening of soft tissue
• Tenderness or pain in lips or gums
• Numbness in tongue
• Change in the fit of your bite or dental restoration
• Difficulty with swallowing or feeling of something stuck in your throat

Schedule A Consultation

Contact our Medford dentist office to schedule your one – on -one consultation with Dr. Parnaik. Dr. Parnaik will hear your cosmetic concerns and perform a comprehensive oral exam. Oral cancer screenings are essentially painless and take less than two minutes. Oral cancer screenings save lives.