When you experience dental pain, you already know that you need to schedule an appointment to see your dentist in Medford. Otherwise, why else would you have to schedule an appointment? Really, your preventive care appointments are key! Every 6 months you should be visiting your dentist to have a dental cleaning, examination, and most importantly—an oral cancer screening.
In recognition of Nation Oral Cancer Awareness Month, your dentist is going to explain oral cancer screenings and why they are so important.
Why Is It Important That I Receive Oral Cancer Screenings?
Believe it or not, almost everyone is susceptible to developing oral cancer. It’s true that smokers, drinkers, and those with certain conditions may have a higher risk, but really anyone can develop the disease at any time.
Also, since the symptoms of oral cancer are so subtle in its early stages, you may not even notice them on your own. But, the tricky thing about this disease is that your chances of survival are almost doubled when addressed early on. If you wait until there’s a noticeable symptom to receive treatment, your chances of survival are much slimmer.
Oral cancer screenings allow your dentist to keep an eye out for the early signs of the disease so that you can receive treatment as soon as possible, increasing your chances of beating cancer.
The Sly Symptoms of Oral Cancer
The signs of oral cancer can easily be mistaken for a minor health problem, like a sore throat from a cold. Really, signs like these are the symptoms of the disease:
- Abnormal swelling.
- Sores, lumps, or bumps.
- A sore throat.
- Change in tone of voice.
- Numbness throughout the mouth.
- Lesions in the mouth.
- Swollen lymph nodes in the neck.
What to Expect from Your Oral Cancer Screening
As mentioned above, the earlier you notice any abnormalities, the sooner your dentist can help you. That’s why your dentist in Medford will take time during your visit to meticulously examine the structures of your mouth, your tongue, and even look around the head and neck for signs of cancer.
Your dentist has the expertise, resources, technology, and skill to see the signs even if your untrained eye can’t. In the case that an abnormality is spotted, you’ll be notified right away, and a biopsy will be completed. Acting fast is the best way to beat the disease!
When was your last oral cancer screening? Your dentist recommends getting them at least every 6 months, but if you’re a smoker or drinker, we recommend visiting your office for screenings more often.
About Our Office
When you choose to visit Giamberardino Dental Care, you can rely on our team to care for all of your oral health needs—even screenings. All you have to do is ask! We work to protect the health of your smile at all costs, addressing problems as soon as we notice them. Contact us today to learn more about how we may be able to help you.