Oral Cancer Awareness
During your regular exam, your dentist will ask you about changes in your medical history and whether you’ve been having any new or unusual symptoms.
What Are the Symptoms of Oral Cancer?
It’s important to be aware of the following signs and symptoms and to see your dentist if they do not disappear after two weeks.
- A sore or irritation that doesn't go away
- Red or white patches
- Pain, tenderness or numbness in mouth or lips
- A lump, thickening, rough spot, crust, or small eroded area
- Difficulty chewing, swallowing, speaking, or moving your tongue or jaw
- A change in the way your teeth fit together when you close your mouth
Some people complain of a sore throat, feeling like something is caught in their throat, numbness, hoarseness or a change in voice.
If you have any of these symptoms, let your dentist know, especially if you’ve had them for two weeks or more.
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Your gift will help the Maryland Foundation of Dentistry's (MFD) Donated Dental Services (DDS) facilitate pro bono dental care to improve oral health, and maintain dental function for Maryland adults with intellectual, physical, and/or developmental disabilities who are unable to pay for their dental care.
Every dollar you donate turns into $7.11 in free dental care. Your donation is tax-deductible and your donation will help MFD continue to change lives now, and for years to come.