April is Oral Cancer Awareness Month

April is Oral Cancer Awareness Month – how to get involved

Citracado Dental Group • Apr 17, 2023

April is observed as Oral Cancer Awareness Month in America. According to the American Cancer Foundation, approximately 54,000 Americans will be diagnosed with oral oropharyngeal cancer this year, with one person dying from the disease every hour. By spreading knowledge about the disease and encouraging people to get screened, we can help save lives and reduce the impact of oral cancer.

This month, let's raise our voices and spread the word about Oral Cancer Awareness Month, and work together to help prevent it.

Here is how you can participate in Oral Cancer Awareness Month.

Educate yourself about the signs and symptoms of oral cancer

Potential indicators of oral cancer include a persistent sore throat or hoarseness, a sore that does not heal on your lip or inside your mouth, red or white patches in and around the oral cavity, difficulty swallowing or chewing, unusual numbness in the mouth or lips, ear pain, frequent headaches, loose teeth and unexplained weight loss. While these symptoms may not always be related to oral cancer, they may indicate other health-related problems that require immediate attention.

If you experience any of these symptoms or have been diagnosed with oral cancer in the past, do not hesitate to bring it up with your dentist. Early detection is essential for successful treatment, and your dentist can check for oral cancer during regularly scheduled dental checkups.

In addition to educating yourself, it is important to share information about oral cancer with your friends and family. Awareness and education are critical in preventing oral cancer as it not only helps individuals recognize its symptoms but also reduce any false assumptions and stereotypes of the disease. While it may seem daunting to start up these conversations, it is crucial to encourage those you care about to get screened regularly.

Schedule an oral cancer screening

Early detection and treatment are crucial when it comes to combating oral cancer. When detected early, patients have a better chance of treating the illness successfully without causing a severe impact on their quality of life. During an oral cancer screening, your dentist will provide a careful examination. They may also order additional diagnostic tests, such as a biopsy, to determine if any suspicious growths are cancerous or non-cancerous.

It is always a good idea to schedule an oral cancer screening if you have any signs or symptoms that indicate the possible development of oral cancer.

Consider donating to a reputable oral cancer organization

One of the most effective ways you can support oral cancer research and advocacy organizations is by donating. By contributing financially to reputable oral cancer organizations, you can have a direct impact on the fight against oral cancer. Your donation can help to fund research, education and support services that are necessary to prevent, detect, and treat oral cancer effectively.

When choosing an oral cancer organization to donate to, keep in mind that it's essential to give to a reputable one that's recognized as a non-profit organization. These organizations are usually in the best position to use your contributions wisely and direct them toward research or services that benefit those with the disease. Before donating, do research into an organization's track record, financial accountability and credibility. You might also want to consider whether they have a specific area of focus, such as awareness or research, aligned with your values or goals.

Oral cancer screening is included with dental hygiene visits at our office. If you are not current on preventive exam visits, please contact us today.

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Nurturing Mental Health: Overcoming Dental Anxiety

By Citracado Dental Group • 25 Apr, 2024

As we make way for May, a month of bright blossoms and the start of warmer weather, we also celebrate Mental Health Awareness Month . During this time, we focus our attention on highlighting the fundamental significance of mental wellness. During discussions surrounding anxiety and depression, one topic often overlooked is dental anxiety - an issue that affects millions around the world. Dental anxiety extends beyond mere dislike about going to the dentist. Rather, it is a complex emotional response that can stem from previous experiences, anticipated pain or discomfort or generalized anxiety disorders. For many people, even thinking about dental procedures can trigger intense fear reactions, panic attacks or behaviors aimed at avoiding dental care altogether. Understanding that dental anxiety isn't just about oral health but is often intertwined with broader mental health issues is vital. If you suffer from anxiety disorders or have had traumatic histories, you may be particularly susceptible to dental anxiety. Here are some tips that you can take to help break the cycle of fear and promote overall wellness. Open Communication: Don't hesitate to discuss your trepidation and fears with your dentist. Our team can tailor our approach based on your or your child’s individual needs and offer comforting reassurances throughout your appointment. Relaxation Techniques: Utilize relaxation techniques such as deep breathing exercises, meditation or progressive muscle relaxation before and during your dental appointment. These methods can reduce anxiety levels and promote a feeling of calmness. Gradual Exposure: If you find yourself overwhelmed by dread at the thought of visiting the dentist, consider gradually exposing yourself to different aspects of it – start with neutral activities like sitting in the waiting room or discussing treatment plans. Sedation Dentistry: If you grapple with intense dental anxiety, sedation dentistry can offer significant relief. This method employs medication to induce relaxation during dental procedures, leading to a more comfortable and stress-free experience. Seeking Professional Assistance: If dental anxiety is significantly disrupting your daily life, it might be helpful to reach out to a mental health professional. Therapy offers valuable coping strategies and tools to effectively help manage your feelings. Dental anxiety doesn't only affect adults - children can also struggle with it, often due to fear of the unknown or past negative experiences. As parents and caregivers, it's essential to establish positive connections with dental care early on. Here are some suggestions: Early Familiarization: Introduce children to the dental environment well before their first appointment. This can help them become used to both their surroundings and the dental team. Role-playing: Encourage pretend play at home that simulates dentist visits. This helps children grow comfortable with the concept of dental procedures in a fun, secure and non-threatening environment. Positive Reinforcement: Praise and reward your child's bravery during dentist appointments. Emphasize the role of oral hygiene in maintaining healthy teeth and gums. Plus, many little ones look forward to a visit to the toy chest after a visit! While dental anxiety can present a significant challenge to achieving optimal oral health and overall wellness, by addressing the mental health aspects of dental anxiety and applying practical coping strategies, both adults and children can overcome fears and foster positive experiences with dentistry. At Citracado Dental Group, your comfort and well-being are our top priority. We recognize that dental visits can evoke anxiety in some patients, and we strive to surpass expectations in providing a pleasant and positive experience for every patient. Your visit to our office is not just about dental care; it's about feeling relaxed and at ease during your time with us. To help make this happen, we have a selection of great amenities lined up to make your visit more comfortable and enjoyable. From neck or back pillows and soft blankets to bottled water or juice selections, we aim to create a soothing environment where you can unwind. Need to zone out? You can enjoy your favorite music on a personal iPad or indulge in a hot cup of gourmet coffee or tea from our bar. We also offer complimentary Wi-Fi, headphones for your listening pleasure, and even facial towels and lip balm for an extra special touch. We’re committed to ensuring your trip to our office is an enjoyable one! Schedule your next visit by calling or texting 760-489-5545.