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April is Oral, Head and Neck Cancer Awareness Month, a time to raise awareness about the signs and symptoms of these types of cancers, which can develop in the oral cavity, throat, and neck. According to the American Cancer Society, about 54,540 new cases of oral or oropharyngeal cancer will be diagnosed in the United States in 2023, and approximately 11,580 people will die from these cancers.

Early detection is key to successful treatment, and free screenings occur all over the US and abroad throughout the year. In April, the Oral, Head and Neck Cancer Awareness Week® promotes a high volume of free screenings worldwide, plus educational talks and other awareness programs.

We want to encourage our readers to be aware of the signs and symptoms of oral, head, and neck cancer. These can include:

• A sore in your mouth that doesn’t heal or that increases in size.
• Persistent pain in your mouth.
• Lumps or white or red patches inside your mouth.
• Difficulty swallowing or moving your tongue or jaw.
• Changes in your voice or speech.

We recommend that you see your dentist or doctor if you have any of these symptoms. In addition to regular screenings, healthy habits such as avoiding tobacco and excessive alcohol consumption, and eating a healthy diet that is rich in fruits and vegetables can help reduce the risk of developing oral, head, and neck cancer.

The American Cancer Society and other organizations are working hard to promote awareness of oral, head, and neck cancer and support research for early detection and treatment. By spreading awareness and taking preventative measures, we can work towards reducing the incidence and impact of these types of cancer.

Remember, early detection can save lives. Take advantage of free screenings and speak with your healthcare provider if you have any concerns. Let’s work together to raise awareness and fight oral, head, and neck cancer.

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The response provided is for informational purposes only and is not intended to serve as medical advice.

Join us in recognizing National Children’s Dental Health Month in February 2023, sponsored by the ADA. This month-long event unites thousands of professionals, healthcare providers, and educators to spread awareness of the importance of good oral health for children and those who care for them.

• Brush your teeth 2x/day with fluoride toothpaste.
• Clean between your teeth daily.
• Eat healthy foods and limit sugary beverages.
• See your dentist at least twice a year.

Visit ADA.org/NCDHM for more information and activity sheets.

 

Hey, winter warriors! It’s that time of year again – time to bundle up and brave the cold. But before you head out into the snowy wilderness, there’s one thing you need to remember: dental safety is no joke.

Sure, slipping on a patch of ice and landing face-first on the ground might seem like a great way to get a good laugh (at least until you feel the sharp pain in your tooth). But trust us, the last thing you want to do is end up in the dentist’s chair with a cracked or chipped tooth.

So, what can you do to avoid dental injuries this winter? Here are a few tips:

• Wear a mouth guard: Whether you’re hitting the slopes or just out for a leisurely stroll, a mouthguard can help protect your teeth from impact. Bonus points if you go for one of those fancy, customizable ones that make you look like a pro athlete.
• Be careful with snowball fights: Sure, hurling a snowball at your buddy’s head can be fun. But if you’re not careful, you could end up with a toothache (or a black eye). So aim for the chest, not the face.
• Stay hydrated: Cold, dry air can lead to dry mouth, which can increase the risk of tooth decay. So make sure to drink plenty of water to keep your mouth moist and your teeth healthy.
• Keep an eye on the weather: If it’s icy outside, be extra careful when walking. Take small steps, keep your hands out of your pockets, and look where you’re going. You never know when a sheet of ice might sneak up on you.

And if, despite your best efforts, you do end up with a dental injury this winter, don’t panic! Just remember to seek treatment as soon as possible. We’ll be able to fix you up in no time, and you’ll be back to smiling (pain-free) in no time.

So stay safe out there, folks. And don’t forget to brush your teeth!

If you are in need of an oral surgeon, it is important that you choose the right one. There are many factors to consider when making this decision, and it can be difficult to know where to start. In this blog post, we will discuss five things that you should keep in mind when choosing an oral surgeon. We will also provide some tips on how to find the best surgeon for your needs.

First, you should make sure that the oral surgeon is qualified. Look for a doctor who has gone through extensive training and education in this field and is certified by the American Board of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery (ABOMS). It’s also important to check their credentials to ensure they have the experience and qualifications necessary to perform your procedure.

Second, you should consider the reputation of the oral surgeon. You can often find reviews and ratings online that can give you an idea of what other patients have experienced when working with a particular doctor. Look for surgeons who consistently receive good reviews from their patients and are highly recommended by their peers.

Third, you should make sure that the oral surgeon is experienced in the type of procedure you need. It’s also important to ensure that they are up-to-date on the latest techniques and technologies in the field. Ask them questions about their experience performing your particular procedure, as well as what kind of results you can expect.

Fourth, it is essential that you feel comfortable with the oral surgeon. During your consultation, take note of how they interact with you, as well as how detailed and thorough their explanations are. Ask them questions about their qualifications and experience, and ask for examples of previous cases that would be similar to yours.

Finally, consider the surgeon’s availability and accessibility. You may want to choose a surgeon who is located nearby and who has flexible scheduling options to accommodate your needs.

By following these tips, you can find an oral surgeon who meets all of your needs and provides excellent care. With the right surgeon, you can ensure that your procedure goes smoothly and that you get the best possible results.

All of our surgeons at Oral and Facial Surgery are board-certified by the American Board of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery and, with locations in Hagerstown, Maryland and Chambersburg, you’re sure to find an office nearby. Call us in Maryland at 301-791-1700 or 717-264-7828 in Pennsylvania. We look forward to answering your questions!

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The information provided on this website should not be used to diagnose or treat any medical condition and is not meant to take the place of professional medical advice. If you think you have a medical problem, please seek the advice of a physician. Call 911 for all medical emergencies.

Halloween can be almost as scary for dentists as it is for children. Just imagine all of those cavities and broken teeth from eating too much candy!

But dentists don’t want to spoil all of your fun, so we thought we would share this video survey of dentist’s favorite Halloween treats from the American Dental Association.