Oral cancer is a deadly disease that affects thousands of people every year. It can be difficult to detect in its early stages, but it is important to catch it early before it spreads and becomes more serious. That’s why oral cancer screenings are so important. In this post, we’ll discuss what oral cancer is, how it is detected, and why screening is such an important part of maintaining good oral health.
What is Oral Cancer?
Oral cancer is a type of cancer that affects the mouth and throat. It can occur in any part of the mouth, including the tongue, lips, gums, and throat. It typically begins as a small sore or growth in the mouth that can be difficult to notice. Over time, it can grow and spread to other parts of the body, making it more difficult to treat. Risk factors for oral cancer include smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, exposure to the human papillomavirus (HPV), and a family history of the disease.
How is Oral Cancer Detected?
Oral cancer is typically detected through a routine screening conducted by your dentist. During the screening, your dentist will examine your mouth for any signs of cancer, including sores, lumps, or irregular patches of tissue. They may also feel the tissues in your mouth and throat to check for any abnormalities. If they notice anything suspicious, they may order further testing, such as a biopsy, to confirm the diagnosis.
Why is Oral Cancer Screening Important?
Oral cancer screening is important because it can help detect the disease in its earliest stages, when it is most treatable. If oral cancer is detected early, it is usually treated with surgery or radiation therapy, which have a high success rate. However, if the cancer is allowed to spread, it becomes more difficult to treat and can be life-threatening. By having regular oral cancer screenings, you can catch the disease early and increase your chances of successful treatment.
How Often Should You Get Oral Cancer Screenings?
Your dentist can recommend how often you should have an oral cancer screening based on your individual risk factors. In general, most people should have a screening at least once a year. If you have a family history of oral cancer or are at a higher risk due to lifestyle factors such as smoking or excessive alcohol consumption, your dentist may recommend more frequent screenings.
Oral cancer screening is an important part of maintaining good oral health. By detecting the disease early, you increase your chances of successful treatment and can prevent serious complications. If you have not had an oral cancer screening recently, talk to your dentist about scheduling one. It only takes a few minutes and could save your life. Remember, prevention is key when it comes to oral cancer, and regular screenings are an essential part of that prevention.
Contact The Carrollton Dentist:
469-708-2049
Location (Tap to open in Google Maps):
2440 N Josey Ln Ste 101
Carrollton, Texas
75006
