How to watch for oral cancer and when to have oral cancer screenings

According to the American Cancer Society at Cancer.org, there are approximately 54,000 new cases of oral cancer each year and about 11,000 deaths each year. These numbers continue to rise, making it more important than ever for both men and women to be aware of the signs and symptoms of oral cancer, or “oropharyngeal cancer,” to catch the condition early enough for successful intervention.

At Cambridge Family Dental of Cambridge, Wisconsin, Dr. Angela Bauer Williams and her team are here to assist in educating patients on oral cancers and what to look for to determine if there is a possible concern.

What is oral cancer?

Dr. Angela Bauer Williams describes oral cancer as cancer cells present anywhere in the oral cavity. This may include the tongue, the tonsils, the oropharynx, the gum tissues, the floor or roof of the mouth, or any other areas such as the salivary glands or even the lips. When cancerous cells are found, patients must talk to their dental provider or primary care physician about their next steps. In most situations, excision, or removal, of the cancerous cells is the most effective way to remove them and keep the cancer from spreading elsewhere in the body and worsening.

What are some signs of oral cancer to look for?

If you are noticing or experiencing any of the symptoms or signs of oral cancer, calling the dentist or doctor for an evaluation and oral cancer test (or biopsy) is the proper next step. Some changes to look for include:

  • Sores in the mouth that do not heal
  • Chronic sore throats
  • Unexplained bleeding in the mouth
  • White or red patches in the mouth
  • Difficulty swallowing or chewing
  • Numbness in the mouth
  • Strange growths on the tongue (tongue cancer)

Be proactive with early detection of oral cancer!

Whenever new growths, spots, or changes occur in the mouth, it is vital that you make an appointment with Dr. Angela Bauer Williams of Cambridge Family Dental to be evaluated for oral cancer during an oral cancer screening.

Our office is located at 710 Katie Court and can be reached by calling (608) 423-6784.

Dr. Angela Bauer Williams EAT Bio

Dr. Angela Bauer Williams

Dr. Angela Bauer Williams received her bachelor’s degree from Augustana College, Rock Island, IL, and her Doctorate in Dental Surgery from the University of Minnesota School of Dentistry.

Constantly pursuing clinical excellence, Dr. Bauer is committed to continuing education and has studied with top clinicians in the country. She is an active member of the Dane County Dental Society, Wisconsin Dental Association, American Dental Association, Academy of General Dentistry (holds Fellowship too), American Academy of Dental Sleep Medicine, American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry, and the Seattle Study Club.

Being a dentist gives her the opportunity to combine her medical and science knowledge with her artistic skills. She loves building trust with her patients and making a difference in their smiles and lives.