When was the last time you saw us for a checkup and received an oral cancer screening? We urge our patients in adulthood to receive one at least once a year, and we offer them as part of our dental exams. In today’s blog, your Leawood, KS, dentist talks about the importance of routine and regular oral cancer screenings.
The Warning Signs and Causes
When people develop oral cancer, they may encounter symptoms like sores and lesions in the mouth that don’t heal after two weeks. There could be rough patches in the inside of the cheek, as well as areas with red and white splotches. People with the disease may also encounter changes to their voice, persistent hoarseness or sore throat, or sudden weight loss. When you experience persistent discomfort in and around your smile, be sure you see our team for an examination. We also recommend a visit every six months for a checkup and cleaning, so we can conduct an oral cancer screening regularly!
The Need for a Screening
We suggest an examination of your mouth’s interior because according to the Oral Cancer Foundation, over 53,000 people will develop the disease this year. Of that number, over half will succumb to it within just five years. One major factor behind this high mortality rate is the fact that the disease is rarely caught in the early stages, and by the time it is, the chances of treatment and recovery are much lower. But the disease is actually often treatable when caught in the early stages, hence our insistence on a screening at least once a year for all adults! To make one with comfort and precision, our team will use both digital x-rays and intraoral camera technology.
Watching Your Smile at Home
We urge our patients to conduct their own examination at home once a month. Look closely at the inside of your mouth in front of a well-lit mirror, looking for the symptoms we have discussed above. If you find anything of concern, let us know right away. You can also lower your risk by avoiding excessive alcohol consumption, wearing protection when exposed to UV light, and avoiding tobacco products. If you have any questions about how our team conducts an oral cancer screening, or if you want to schedule a visit with our team, then contact our office today to learn more and start the process. We want to help you and your family enjoy optimal oral health again!
Schedule a Visit for Family Dentistry
Our team is eager to help protect your smile with a preventive approach to family dental care, so we can address possible risks in the early stages and protect your smile. To learn more about our approach to family dental care, call Dreem Dentistry in Leawood, KS, today at (913)681-5500.
