Okatie, SC Dentist Helps in Preventing and Detecting Oral Cancer

    OKATIE, SC, February 06, 2014 /24-7PressRelease/ -- It is now easier than ever to detect oral cancer early, when the opportunity for a cure is great. Only about half of all patients diagnosed with oral cancer survive more than five years. If not diagnosed and treated early, oral cancer can be fatal, which is why Dr. Daniel Hughes, Okatie, SC dentist, continues to provide oral cancer screenings at his dental office.

With the proper skills and tools, Dr. Hughes helps to ensure that early signs of cancer and precancerous conditions are identified. Dr. Hughes works with each of his patients to fight and win the battle against oral cancer by knowing the early signs and when to seek care.

There are numerous risk factors involved in developing cancer with the most typical being smoking. Smokers are up to six times more likely to develop cancer of the mouth and similarly, those who use smokeless tobacco such as snuff are at an even greater risk of developing oral cancer in the lining of the lips and the gums.

Dr. Daniel Hughes, a dentist in Okatie, SC, informs his patients that alcohol can also increase a person's risk of developing oral cancer and so can excessive exposure to sunlight at a young age. Additionally, a person is at an increased risk of developing cancer if it runs in his or her family, as there is a strong genetic factor involved.

"A majority of patients with oral cancer commonly experience swelling and lumps inside their mouth or on the lips and gums. These may also appear as crusts, eroded patches and rough spots. Bleeding may occur for no reason and red or white patches in your mouth may develop," said Okatie dentist, Dr. Daniel Hughes.

Frequently, a loss in sensitivity is experienced in the mouth, face or neck, and sores appear in similar areas as well. The sores bleed often and remain present for an extended period of time. Oral cancer may often begin with an asymptomatic stage during which symptoms may not be obvious and is often painless initially making it difficult to detect. Oral cancer screenings, as recommended by the American Cancer Society, should take place every three years for people over the age of 20 and annually for those over age 40.

"Since symptoms associated with oral cancer may be confused with other medical conditions, self-examinations should not replace seeing a dentist for oral care maintenance at least twice a year. When used in conjunction, periodic self-examination and regular dental hygiene visits can help promote early-stage detection of oral cancer. And remember, it is always best to visit our office so we can properly evaluate your symptoms," said Dr. Hughes, Okatie dentist.

For more information on oral cancer screenings and prevention, patients can visit the practice's website at http://www.hughesdentalonline.com, or by calling (843) 705-7066.

About Hughes Dental Group: Dr. Daniel Hughes earned his dental degree from Indiana University School of Dentistry. As a native of the Hoosier state of Indiana, Dr. Hughes began his dental career in Leo, IN. His son, Brad, has taken over the Leo office, while Dr. Hughes now works at his office in Okatie, SC. Dr. Hughes is proud to be a dentist in Okatie and looks forward to providing superior dental care for his patients for years to come.

Media Contact:
Dr. Daniel Hughes
[email protected]
10 William Pope Drive, Suite 2
Okatie, SC 29909
(843) 705-7066
http://www.hughesdentalonline.com

As seen on: http://www.epressdistribution.com/news.asp?id=3407

# # #