When it comes to oral cancer mortality rates, two numbers are key: 40% and 90%.

40% of individuals who receive a late-stage diagnosis die within five years. However, the survival rate for early stage diagnosis is 90%.

Oral Cavity and Oropharynx—Mouth and Throat

Cancers that originate in the mouth (or oral cavity) are labeled oral cancers. The oral cavity is composed of the inside tissue of the mouth and cheeks, the lips, the tissue beneath the tongue, the roof of the mouth, and the front two-thirds of the tongue. “Why only two-thirds of the tongue?” you might ask. Because the back third of the tongue is considered part of the throat. Throat cancers, or oropharyngeal cancers, start in the oropharynx, the part of the mouth behind the parts considered part of the oral cavity. The oropharynx consists of the soft palate, the tonsils, and the throat.

How Are Oral Cancers Diagnosed?

Some oral cancers produce symptoms which prompt the patient to see a doctor and others are discovered by dentists and doctors during exams. Thousands of lives could be saved every year if more men and women received regular screenings.

A visual oral cancer exam is relatively quick and convenient, especially as compared to other cancer screening tests such as colonoscopies and mammograms. If an abnormality is discovered during an exam, the patient is referred to an appropriate specialist for further testing and diagnosis.

Be proactive. Ask your dentist or doctor to perform an oral cancer screening during each checkup or physical. If you have one or more risk factors, it’s critical to meet with your health care provider for counsel on oral cancer screenings and prevention. Oral Cancer Risk Factors

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Plano dentist Dr. Isabella Mejia provides exceptional family dentistry, restorative and cosmetic dentistry, Invisalign clear braces, and so much more to the North Dallas area including Plano, Allen, Murphy, Fairview, Sachse, McKinney and Frisco, Texas.