Regular Dental Checkups Are Essential in the Early Detection of Oral Cancer

Baltimore area dentist Dr. Michael Schwartz reminds patients that oral cancer is best detected during regular dental checkups.

Catonsville, MD (Vocus) December 14, 2009

Dr. Michael Schwartz, a dentist in Catonsville, Maryland, reminds his and all dental patients that regular checkups are the best early detection of cancerous and pre-cancerous conditions. During every check-up Dr. Schwartz carefully examines the inside of his patient’s mouth and tongue and in some patients may notice a flat, painless, white or red spot or a small sore. Although most of these are harmless, some are not. Harmful oral spots or sores often look identical to those that are harmless, but testing can tell them apart. Early detection of oral cancer saves lives.

Dr. Schwartz conveys these important facts about oral cancer to his patients. Cancer can effect ANY area of the oral cavity. Signs of oral cancer include a sore that bleeds easily or doesn't heal, a color change of the oral tissues, a lump, thickening, rough spot, crust or eroded area, pain tenderness or numbness, difficulty chewing, swallowing, or speaking. Alcohol or tobacco use greatly increases the risk of oral cancer, but studies suggest that a diet high in fruits and vegetables may prevent the development of potentially cancerous lesions. Prolonged exposure to the sun greatly increases the incidence of lip cancer. Oral cancer is more likely to strike after the age of 40.

Dr. Michael Schwartz regularly offers dental tips and news such as this on his Catonsville dentists web site.

About Dr. Michael Schwartz
For nearly a decade, Dr. Michael L. Schwartz has restored and rejuvenated smiles. He graduated with an undergraduate degree from Lehigh University before receiving his doctor of dental surgery degree from the University of Maryland School of Dentistry. He then went on to complete the Advanced General Dentistry residency program at The University of Maryland. As a graduate of the Misch Institute of Implantology, Dr. Schwartz values postgraduate training. He pursues many courses each year to stay on top of the latest developments in dental procedures and technology. Dr. Schwartz attended the Nash Institute for Dental Learning, and he's a fellow of the International Congress of Oral Implantologists. He currently holds membership with the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry, the American Dental Association, and the Academy of General Dentistry. He is a Catonsville dentist practicing general and family dentistry in the Baltimore metropolitan area.

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