The Importance of Regular Oral Cancer Screenings
Oral cancer screenings are vital because:
- Early detection significantly increases the chances of successful treatment.
- It helps identify cancerous and pre-cancerous conditions that might not be visible or cause symptoms.
- Regular screenings can catch oral cancer before it spreads or becomes more serious.
What Happens During an Oral Cancer Screening?
During the screening, our dentist will:
- Conduct a visual examination of your mouth, face, neck, and lips for any signs of cancer, such as sores, discoloration, or irregularities.
- Perform a physical examination to check for lumps or abnormalities in the head and neck area.
- Use specialized tools or dyes if necessary to highlight problem areas.
- Discuss any findings and recommend further steps if needed.
Who Should Get Screened for Oral Cancer?
Oral cancer screenings are recommended for:
- Adults, especially those over the age of 40.
- Tobacco and alcohol users, as they are at higher risk.
- Anyone with a history of oral cancer or significant sun exposure.
- Individuals with HPV or other risk factors for oral cancer.