The purpose of an oral cancer screening is to try and identify cancer in its earliest stages. Early detection of oral cancer can provide a better opportunity to seek treatment that is effective. Patients who are more at risk of oral cancer should consider an annual oral cancer screening.
Anyone who is nervous before an oral cancer screening can benefit from knowing more about what to expect during the visit. The following is an overview of what an oral cancer screening is and who should strongly consider visiting the dentist for one.
Every dentist or oncologist may have their own process for an oral cancer screening, but there are certain steps that are commonly involved. Many dental professionals will check for signs of oral cancer during a routine dental visit, but a screening is performed to check more thoroughly for signs of cancer. The process typically involves the following:
If there are any concerns that suggest a tumor is present, then they may order a biopsy and other additional tests.
Many medical professionals debate the importance of oral cancer screenings for individuals who do not meet one or more of the risk factors. However, those who do should strongly consider regular oral cancer screenings. The more notable risk factors of oral cancer include:
Most who have oral cancer are over the age of 55. It also affects men twice as much as it affects women. Additionally, tobacco use and excessive use of alcohol may increase the risk of oral cancer. A sexually transmitted disease known as human papillomavirus (HPV) is considered a risk factor as well.
Be sure to talk to a dentist or primary care doctor about whether or not to have an oral cancer screening scheduled. Most who meet multiple risk factors will likely need regular screenings. For example, men over the age of 55 or men who use tobacco products regularly can benefit from an oral cancer screening. With that said, a general dentist should also check for signs of oral cancer during a routine checkup, although it is not entirely conclusive.
To reduce the risk of oral cancer, consider limiting or stopping the use of tobacco products and drinking alcohol. Excessive sun exposure and a poor diet may also contribute to the risk of oral cancer, so wearing sunscreen and eating a healthy diet may also reduce the risk of developing oral cancer.
Reach out today to learn more about the oral cancer screening process and what to expect. Additionally, an appointment can be scheduled to get a screening done!
Are you considering an oral cancer screening in the Dallas area? Get more information at https://www.highlandsdentaldallas.com.
While dentists strive to save natural teeth whenever possible, certain situations may require tooth extractions to preserve oral health. When severe damage, decay, infection, or other oral health issues threaten the health of your smile, an extraction can save it. It is important patients recognize the signs of trouble and seek treatment promptly.Extensive tooth decay…
Dental crowns are often costly and require that a dentist remove a significant amount of the tooth's structure to place them. Read on to learn about dental crown alternatives. Other treatment alternatives are sometimes available that are either less expensive or significantly less invasive. Dental crowns are frequently used to restore severely damaged teeth.The following…
Dental crowns are dental restorations that cover teeth entirely for added protection, improved function, and cosmetic purposes. Dental crowns are versatile treatment solutions, and there are many reasons that a dentist may recommend this treatment for patients.The most common reasons that dentists recommend a dental crown are to protect a tooth that is weakened or…
A dental crown can help to fix a variety of dental issues like chipped, cracked, broken, decayed, or deformed teeth. The crown covers up the visible part of the tooth and restores its function. Getting a dental crown placed on a tooth typically involves two trips to the dentist. The first is used to prepare…