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Our dedicated dental team is excited to remind patients that we provide thorough oral cancer screenings as part of our comprehensive dental health services. Just like with any cancer, the earlier it is detected, the more effective the treatment can be. Routine screenings serve as your primary defense against oral cancer, and our experienced dentist is here to support you throughout the process.
During your screening, our dentist will carefully examine your lips, tongue, gums, mouth, and throat for any unusual findings that may indicate the presence of cancer or potential cancer development. We will also consider any symptoms you might be experiencing. If you notice any concerning signs of oral cancer that last longer than a week without improvement, we encourage you to schedule an appointment and inform your dentist right away. Symptoms to watch for include:
- Ear pain
- Unexplained bleeding in the mouth
- Mouth sores that fail to heal
- White or red patches in your mouth
- Significant weight loss
- Lumps or swellings in or around your mouth
- Persistent sore throat without other sinus-related symptoms
- A sensation of something stuck in the back of your throat
- Difficulty swallowing, speaking, or moving your jaw or tongue
In the United States, someone dies from oral cancer roughly every hour. While anyone can develop this disease, certain factors may elevate your risk. Common risk factors include genetic factors, excessive sun exposure, poor dietary habits, and heavy alcohol use. Notably, oral cancer is more commonly diagnosed in men than in women, and individuals with gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) are at higher risk. Additionally, tobacco users are six times more likely to develop oral cancer than non-users.
Regardless of the cause, the success of treatment is largely influenced by the cancer’s size, type, and stage. Early detection is crucial for a successful recovery. When caught in the early stages, oral cancers have an impressive survival rate of 80% to 90%. This high rate is largely due to prompt treatment following early detection. Oral cancers identified at early or precancerous stages can often be addressed with less invasive techniques, while later-stage cancers tend to be larger, more complicated, and frequently spread beyond the mouth.
We are currently welcoming new patients! If you’d like to learn more about oral cancer and the significance of oral cancer screenings, please contact our office to set up a consultation. With regular screenings and vigilant self-monitoring, you can significantly enhance your chances of early detection and successful treatment. We look forward to supporting your oral health journey!