Unlike other types of cancer, this can usually be easily identified through an oral cancer screening at your dental office. You can have the peace of mind that if you have oral cancer it will be detected early so you can start treatment.
This early detection can not only help you avoid pain but it could save your life. To schedule an oral cancer screening, call our dental office today!
Understanding Oral Cancer
This type of cancer is known as squamous cell carcinoma and is produced through the abnormal growth of cells in the throat or mouth. Symptoms of oral cancer can include discolored patches in the lips, throat, or mouth, as well as sores and lumps.
There are many factors that can increase your risk of getting oral cancer but no one is immune to it and that is what makes it dangerous. Be proactive in your health and get screened for oral cancer.
The Role of Oral Cancer Screening
Oral cancer is often asymptomatic in the early stages, so getting a professional screening regularly is crucial to catching it early. Don’t wait until cancer is causing you problems before you get diagnosed!
Early Detection Saves Lives
The quicker you get diagnosed with any sickness, disease, or ailment, the better your odds are for recovery. The longer you wait to get diagnosed with oral cancer, your odds decrease exponentially, but with regular oral cancer screenings, you’ll be able to know immediately if you have a condition you need to worry about.
If you want to be proactive in your overall health, schedule an appointment with our dental office to see if you suffer from oral cancer.
Screening Process
An oral cancer screening is comprised of a visual inspection by the dentist. This exam involves checking the lips, gums, oral cavity, and inner cheeks. This is a pain-free examination that could save you from pain, stress, and expenses in the future.
In addition to evaluating the oral cavity, the dental professional will examine your neck and throat for swelling, lumps, or enlarged lymph nodes. Additional testing may be required such as imaging or a biopsy to give you clear results.
Who Should Get Screened?
Everyone should get screened for oral cancer, particularly adults, but there are certain individuals that have a higher chance of developing oral cancer, this includes people who:
- Use tobacco products.
- Excessively consume alcohol.
- Have a history of oral cancer or precancerous lesions.
- Genetic predisposition.
- Family history of oral cancer.
- Weakened immune system.
- Prolonged sun exposure.
Lower Your Risk of Oral Cancer
Whether you have an increased risk of oral cancer or not, these are steps to lower your chance of oral cancer:
- Avoiding tobacco products
- Limiting alcohol consumption
- Practicing good oral hygiene
- Regular dental visits
- Using lip balms with SPF
- Wearing a wide-brimmed hat when outdoors
- Eating a healthy diet with fruits and vegetables
- Performing self-examinations regularly
The most important thing that you can do to lower your risk of oral cancer is to know which factors increase your risk and be proactive in avoiding them. Also, schedule oral cancer screenings so that if you do have oral cancer you get it detected early.
Take Back Control, Schedule a Screening Today!
If you want to be proactive in your oral and overall health, scheduling regular dental visits that include oral cancer screenings is the way to go. Schedule by calling our dental office today to get screened for oral cancer.