When was the last time you received an oral cancer screening? We recommend one at least once a year for adults of all ages. Which means now is a great time to schedule a visit and receive treatment. In today’s blog, your Leawood, KS, dentist talks about how we help smiles with an oral cancer screening.
The Warning Signs of Trouble
We urge you to have a screening at least once a year, but should you begin to encounter potential symptoms, we hope you will reach out to our team right away. Potential wanting signs of oral cancer may include sores or lesions in your mouth and the interior of your cheeks that don’t heal after two weeks. Rough patches, hoarseness, sore throat, and areas of red and white splotches that don’t heal after a few days are also common signs of trouble. You should be concerned with unexplained weight loss too. Remember, oral cancer is often treatable but has a high routinely rate because it is rarely caught in the early stages. The sooner you let us know about your symptoms, the better.
The Screening Process
With a screening, we take a close look at your smile with digital imaging systems, such as digital x-rays and intraoral cameras. Images will be available instantly chairside, so we can walk you through the diagnostic process. No need to wait for images to develop in harsh chemicals. Then images will be high-definition and also use a fraction of the radiation to capture them. Our team will look for signs of precancerous or cancerous tissues. We can take a biopsy or refer you to a specialist as needed.
Preventive Actions
You can also help lower your risk of oral cancer by wearing sun protection to limit overexposure to UV light, and avoiding tobacco products or excessive alcohol consumption. That said, even if you don’t drink or smoke, you could still develop the disease, so an exam and diagnosis is essential.
Schedule Your Exam
Now is a great time to schedule your first visit of 2025. We can examine your smile and also clean your teeth to improve your oral health. If we find issues that need attention, we can start treatment now so that you start a new year on the path to a new and healthier smile. If you have any questions about our exams and cleanings, or if you want to make sure you undergo an oral cancer screening, then contact our team right away!
Do You Have Any Questions About General Dental Care?
We want to help you enjoy good oral health and a smile that makes you feel confident. Call Dreem Dentistry in Leawood, KS by calling (913)681-5500 to learn more.
