How to examine yourself for Oral Cancer?

Did you know that if you’re a Chewing Tabacco user, Smoker or over 60 years of age, you are in the group which is at the greatest risk for developing oral cancer? Because early intervention is critical, be proactive and examine your mouth on the first of each month – mark it in your calendar. Checking is easy: with a mirror under good lighting, visually check your lips, gums, the insides of your cheeks, your tongue (and under your tongue), and your palate. Then use your finger to feel all around the inside of your mouth. Look for white patches that won’t come off when scraped with a fingernail or ones that bleed when you do, a lump or bump especially if only on one side of your mouth, swollen, red, or bleeding gums, or any persistent sores. Make sure you call us immediately if you notice anything unusual.