The Deadly Danger Often Detected By Dentists

A trip to the dentist not only leaves you with a sparkling smile, but it may just save your life. Dentists such as Dr. Ukti Phadnis, DMD, with Wethersfield Dental Group, are often the first line of defense to detect one of the most deadly cancers. Oral Cancer has only a 50% five-year survival rate and the number of cases among young people is rising.

“Cases of oral cancer used to be primarily diagnosed in individuals over 40 with a history of tobacco use or heavy drinking,” explains Dr. Phadnis. “Now statistics have shifted, and the fastest growing segment of the oral cancer population is young, non-smokers who have the human papilloma virus otherwise known as HPV.”

During National Oral Cancer Month in April, Dr. Phadnis encourages everyone to ask their dental health professional for a comprehensive screening. The death rate associated with this cancer is particularly high not because it is hard to diagnose, but the cancer is not routinely discovered until late in its development.

According to the Oral Cancer Foundation, the death rate for oral cancer is higher than that of cancers which we hear about routinely, such as cervical cancer, Hodgkin’s lymphoma, laryngeal cancer, and thyroid cancer. Often oral cancer is recognized when the cancer has metastasized to another location, most likely the lymph nodes of the neck. Close to 49,750 Americans will be diagnosed with oral oropharyngeal cancer this year.

“In its early stages, symptoms can go unnoticed, particularly by young people who don’t consider themselves at risk,” says Dr. Phadnis. “It can be painless, and appear as a white or red patch of tissue in the mouth, or a small ulcer which looks like a common canker sore.”

Dr. Phadnis notes that other symptoms include:

· A sore or discolored area of your mouth, which does not heal within 14 days

· A lump or mass which can be felt inside the mouth or neck

· Pain or difficulty in swallowing, speaking, or chewing

· Any wart-like mass

· Hoarseness which lasts for a long time

· Numbness in the oral/facial region

· Unilateral persistent ear ache can also be a warning sign

Clinicians have to remain alert for signs of potentially malignant lesions or early-stage cancers while performing routine visual and physical examinations in all patients, but particularly in those who use tobacco or who consume alcohol heavily. For men, that means an average of more than two drinks daily and for women, an average of more than one per day. Lesions that might raise suspicion of potential malignancy include sharp or distinct margins, a red component, surface irregularity, persistent ulceration and size larger than 1 centimeter. Also suspicious are any persistent or progressive lesion under the tongue or the floor of the mouth.

Dr. Phadnis explains the most accurate test is a conventional biopsy. There are devices that screen for cell abnormalities by using special light sources that illuminate differences in tissue, but the results are not 100% accurate.

“Lifestyle factors definitely affect your chances of developing oral cancer,” says Dr. Phadnis. “Use lip balm with sunscreen, avoid any type of tobacco, and limit alcohol consumption. If you have HPV, make sure to tell your dentist.”

Wethersfield Dental Group is a full service dental, cosmetic and restorative practice. Dr. Ukti G. Phadnis, DMD strives to deliver quality dental care through patient education and preventative care for the whole family. The practice accepts most forms of insurance, and offers an affordable in-house Discount Dental Plan. The office is located at 55 Town Line Rd Suite 100 in Wethersfield. Walk-ins welcome. Office hours are 9:00AM-5:30PM Monday-Friday. Visit us online at wethersfielddentalgroup.com or call (860) 400-3007.