There are so many benefits to routine cleanings with our dental office. Not only do we ensure that we are getting rid of tartar buildup and giving your mouth a thorough cleaning, we are also checking for potential problems and diagnosing issues while we look at your teeth. One of the things we always check for is oral cancer. Oral cancer can occur in the lips, gums, tongue, inside lining of the cheeks, the roof of the mouth, or the floor of the mouth, and it’s not always presented with pain.
When we perform a thorough, manual oral cancer screening, we’ll look for the following signs:
– Reddish or whitish patches in the mouth
– A sore that doesn’t heal and bleeds easily
– A lump or thickening of the skin lining the inside of the mouth, among other signs
If doctors can find oral cancer at an early stage, cancer or cancerous legions can be removed before cancer spreads or becomes larger and poses a much greater threat.
Watch the video below to learn what the American Dental Association has to say in regards to routine screenings for oral cancer:
Transcript:
“Regular visits to your dentist are important for the early detection of oral cancer. During a routine exam, your dentist will perform an oral cancer screening to check for any abnormalities. About 10% of patients have a flat, painless, white or red spot or a small sore on the inside of their mouths. Testing can determine if the spot is harmless. Your dentist may take tissue for testing or send you to a specialist. Be sure to visit your dentist regularly because you may not be able to see a discoloration or sore on your own. By participating in routine dental checkups, you are taking an active role in the prevention of oral cancer.”
If you have any questions about your dental health or if you would like to schedule a free consultation, please contact our team or make an appointment. Our incredible staff will give you the best dental care possible.