Posted on 8/7/2023 by Singing River Dentistry Madison
Dentists conduct oral cancer screening to detect oral cancer or any lesions that may lead to oral cancer. The dentist usually scans the following areas where cancer may occur; salivary glands, tongue, tonsils, inside the mouth, and in the soft tissues of the mouth. Apart from screening, sometimes the dentist may use additional tests to detect oral cancer.
Why Is Oral Cancer Screening Important?
Regular oral cancer screenings are an important part of your overall health. This is because the screening will allow your dentist to detect cancer early on. Thus, you will have a better chance of treating the cancer successfully. Besides that, if possible, it is always best to prevent cancer from occurring. That being said, oral cancer screening will allow your dentist to detect any sores or lesions that you may have, and put you on a treatment plan. This will allow the dentist to treat them before they become cancerous.
How Often Should I Get an Oral Cancer Screening?
It is highly advisable to undergo oral cancer screening at least once every three years. However, getting the screening done more frequently may in turn help prevent further complications. This is especially true for those people who are at great risk of the disease. This includes people who use tobacco products regularly, people with heavy alcohol consumption, and people with HPV.
What Symptoms Should I Look Out For?
It is important to know and fully understand the symptoms of oral cancer so that you can know what to look out for. Some of the most common symptoms include; tongue pain, sore throat, pain when swallowing, pain when chewing, and jaw stiffness.
That being said, it is important to note that some of the symptoms of oral cancer are like those of a common cold. If these symptoms last for over two weeks, it is best to visit your dentist for a consultation.
The most successful way of treating oral cancer is through early detection and diagnosis. Therefore, it is important to up keep with your dental appointments. Keeping up with your dental appointments will allow the dentist to detect any sores and lesions early on before they become cancerous.
About Us - Madison, AL | Singing River Dentistry Singing River Dentistry is a patient-centered dental practice, devoted to helping patients of all ages improve their oral and overall health. Call us! Singing River Dentistry Madison, 7559 Hwy 72 W, Suite 105, Madison, AL 35758 ^ 256 - 562 - 4001 ^ madison.singingriverdentistry.com ^ 12/1/2024 ^ Related Terms: dentist Madison AL ^
Dentists conduct oral cancer screening to detect oral cancer or any lesions that may lead to oral cancer. The dentist usually scans the following areas where cancer may occur; salivary glands, tongue, tonsils, inside the mouth, and in the soft tissues of the mouth. Apart from screening, sometimes the dentist may use additional tests to detect oral cancer.