moorpark center for dentistry logo
new patient exam

100% Satisfaction Guarantee On All Treatment

moorpark center for dentistry header logo
schedule free new patient exam

100% Satisfaction Guarantee On All Treatment

header logo moorpark center for dentistry
free new patient exam

100% Satisfaction Guarantee On All Treatment

What is oral cancer?

April is Oral Cancer Awareness Month. If you have been putting off a visit to our Moorpark, CA office, now is an excellent time to schedule one. Regular visits to Moorpark Center for Dentistry can be the first line of defense against oral cancer, by identifying early warning signs of the disease, or helping you with preventive care tips to lower your chances of developing it.

Oral Cancer Rates in America

Nearly 40,000 people in the U.S. will be diagnosed with oral cancer this year, and more than 8,000 die every year from this disease. It is a devastating illness: most people who are diagnosed with it do not live more than five years beyond their diagnosis. Oral cancer has a higher death rate than many other common cancers, including cervical cancer, testicular cancer, Hodgkin’s lymphoma, and thyroid or skin cancers. The high death rate results from the fact that most oral cancers go undiagnosed until the disease is well advanced and has spread to another part of the body—most often, the lymph nodes in the neck.

What causes oral cancer?

While there is no way to predict exactly which individuals will get oral cancer, there are some potential causes you should know about—because in some cases, you can minimize these risk factors.

  • Age (most patients diagnosed with oral cancer are over the age of 40)
  • Tobacco use, either from cigarettes or smokeless chewing tobacco
  • Excessive alcohol consumption (especially in combination with tobacco use)
  • Persistent viral infections, such as HPV16
  • A diet low in fruits and vegetables

In addition, oral cancer tends to occur at a rate six times greater in men than in women, and more often for African Americans than other ethnic groups. No genetic links have been identified to explain the higher incidence in these populations, so lifestyle choices remain the likeliest cause.

Oral Cancer Treatments

Once a diagnosis has been made, treatment of oral cancer usually involves a multi-disciplinary team that includes surgeons, oncologists, dentists, nutritionists, and rehabilitation and restorative specialists. Our team will decide on the best approach for each patient, depending on the risk factors and how far the cancer has progressed. The strategy will be different in every case. Some of the most common methods include chemotherapy, radiation, and potential surgery.

Finding out you have cancer can be devastating news. If you are concerned that you might be at risk for developing oral cancer, talk to us about screenings and other things you can do to reduce your risk.

Your Top-Rated & New Favorite Dentist In Moorpark, CA

Moorpark Center for Dentistry is outstanding! Every single staff member from front to back is absolute amazing. They are kind, and friendly, and the complimentary menu is a bonus! My husband and I have both been in a few times, for regular cleanings and emergencies and have been beyond impressed. Today was my daughter’s first dentist visit and they hit it out of the park! We will continue using Dr. Potts and his amazing team! Cheers!

- Brittany Brouhard
ashley cooper 5 star review

Dr. Potts and his staff are amazing. I had a problem with a tooth and they got me in right away. I was surprised since I was a new patient. Everyone in his office is so nice and very efficient. They made me feel so comfortable. Their warming and massage dental chair is awesome. If you are looking for a new dentist, I highly recommend Moorpark Center for Dentistry.

- Sherry Waldman
melinda 5 star review

professional and top notch!! State of the art facility and you are made to feel special and very welcomed as soon as you walk through the door. Dr. Potts is an excellent dentist and runs an exceptional dental center. Highly recommend especially if you are nervous about visiting a dentist. I drive 56 miles to this dental center, which says a lot.

- Susan Piraino
monica 5 star review

*The reviews listed are from actual patients of Moorpark Center For Dentistry office. Individual results may vary. Reviews are not claimed to represent results for everyone.

google reviews
yelp reviews
facebook reviews
moorpark center for dentistry footer

Our Moorpark, CA Dental Office

4217 Tierra Rejada Rd.
Moorpark, CA 93021

805.243.3999

Office Hours:
Monday: 7:00am - 7:00pm
Tuesday: 7:00am - 7:00pm
Wednesday: 7:00am - 7:00pm
Thursday: 7:00am - 7:00pm
Friday: 7:00am - 4:00pm

moorpark center for dentistry map
moorpark center for dentistry logo

Our Moorpark, CA Dental Office

4217 Tierra Rejada Rd.
Moorpark, CA 93021

805.243.3999

Office Hours:
Monday: 7:00am - 7:00pm
Tuesday: 7:00am - 7:00pm
Wednesday: 7:00am - 7:00pm
Thursday: 7:00am - 7:00pm
Friday: 7:00am - 4:00pm

moorpark center for dentistry map