Regular visits to the dentist can be lifesaving

Regular exams with a dentist are the first line of defense in the early diagnosis — and treatment — of oral cancer.

04/14/21

About oral cancer

In 2021, more than 54,000 people in the United States will be diagnosed with oral cancer.¹ Because a primary care provider does not typically perform a thorough oral exam during regular preventive visits, key early symptoms of oral cancer can be missed. Regular exams with a dentist are the first line of defense in the early diagnosis — and treatment — of oral cancer.

Early symptoms

Some early symptoms include:

• Red or white patches in the mouth or throat
• Pain, tenderness or numbness in the mouth or lips
• Difficulty chewing, swallowing, speaking or moving your tongue or jaw

Oral cancer is also one of the most expensive cancers to treat — and even more so in its advanced stages. Studies show that it costs two to four times more to treat oral cancer in its advanced stages versus treating it early.²

Benefits and programs to help

Offering benefits and programs that support employees in their oral health and quitting tobacco can help minimize their risk of oral cancer. For example:

• Providing dental benefits
• Encouraging employees to see a dentist regularly 
• Offering tobacco cessation programs
• Banning tobacco on company property

Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Minnesota has a variety of dental plans available. Talk with your Blue Cross representative or your agent.