Absolutely! It is important to have an oral cancer screening. There are plenty of threats that can develop affecting your teeth and gums that the naked eye can’t spot, and if you wait until you’re in pain to visit the dentist, by that point, whatever oral health problem you’re facing has already progressed.
Oral cancer screenings are just one way that we help our patients stay in control of their healthcare. Not only are screenings non-invasive, but they take just a few moments to performance.
During all dental examinations at Paradise Dental Associates, our highly trained dentist or hygienist will evaluate the mouth for oral cancer warning signs. Patients are encouraged to discuss any changes in the hard tissues or soft tissues of the mouth, palate, and through with us, as these can be symptoms of oral cancer.
What is Oral Cancer Screening?
It is an examination performed to look for signs of any precancerous cells. This test is specific to the oral cavity, to examine for different types of oral cancer, which is usually part of a routine during your dental check-up visit. It is a simple step that can help save your life.
Why is Oral Cancer Screening Important?
Preventive Measures
Your dentist can take necessary actions if they see any warning signs to prevent cancer from developing or worsening.
Early Treatment
One of the reasons that oral cancer has taken so many lives is that people do not catch it early enough. This is due to the fact that it is impossible to clearly see the inside of your mouth without assistance. When there are physical signs of cancer, it can be hard to identify them yourself.
Who needs it?
Like all cancers, everyone is at risk for oral cancer, regardless of your age. There are, however, people who have a greater risk of developing the disease.
- Tobacco users – Including cigarettes, cigars, pipes, chewing tobacco, and snuff.
- Heavy Drinkers – Frequent and heavy consumption of alcohol does increase your risk of getting oral cancer.
- Prolonged sun exposure – High exposure to the sun without sun protection is linked to lip cancer.
- Men over the age of 45 – Men are more likely to develop oral cancers than women, especially those that over 45 years old, according to studies.
- Poor Diet – Vitamin A deficiency may increase the risk of oral cancer.
- Weakened Immune System – People with weakened immune system may have higher risk of developing oral cancer.
- Poor Oral Hygiene – Lack of dental care and not following regular oral hygiene practices increases your risk of oral cavity cancer.
Schedule Your Next Appointment!
Now that you know why your routine oral cancer screenings are so valuable to your overall dental care, it’s time to pay us a visit! Paradise Dental Associates offers complimentary, comfortable oral cancer screenings for all our patients. Book an appointment or call us (781)598-3700.
