ST. LOUIS – The month of April is dedicated to bringing awareness about oral cancer, which sees about 50,000 cases annually.

To provide acknowledgement, Delta Dental of Missouri is enlightening those on how to reduce the risks of oral cancer.

According to Dental Director Dr. Matthew Mathai, this disease is uncommon to many. 

“It can be something as simple as a bump or a growth or a sore; it’s really something that can just show up in your mouth one day,” Mathai said. 

Mathai says that symptoms for oral cancer include difficulties swallowing, eating or chewing.

“Sometimes you notice that the growth—sometimes it can look like a red patch or white patch. Sometimes it can be a blister that does not want to heal,” Mathai said.

Delta Dental of Missouri will continue to enlighten those about oral cancer and help them know it’s a preventable disease. Regularly visiting a dentist and primary care physicians is also optimal.

More information about Delta Dental of Missouri can be found here.