Reasons Why You Should Get Screened for Oral Cancer

posted in: General Dentistry | 0

The American Dental Association recommends that everyone should see their dentist every six months. The reason: for dentists to watch out for signs of tooth decay, gum problems, and have your teeth professionally cleaned. However, dental checkups can also be your first line of defense over something more dangerous. Aside from cleanings and checkups, dentists even use routine visits to monitor the earliest signs of oral cancer.

oral cancer screening


Oral cancer often appears as a growth or sore in your mouth that does not go away. Some of its types are cancers of the tongue, lips, cheeks, hard and soft palate, the floor of the mouth, as well as the throat. If oral cancer is not detected early, it could become life-threatening. This is why oral cancer screening is an essential part of routine dental checkups.

The condition on the rise for younger people

Generally, oral cancer is thought only to affect older people who are smokers are drinkers. However, more and more young men and women are diagnosed with this disease. The reason behind this could be human papillomavirus (HPV). If you are at ages 25-50, you could be at risk, so make sure to book regular dental visits.

Oral cancer screening is quick and painless 

An oral cancer examination only takes less than fifteen minutes. It consists of a simple visual check of your mouth, lips, and face for precancerous or cancerous symptoms. If ever your dentist discovers any irregularities, diagnostic tests will be carried out. It is best to get screened at least once a year during your dental checkups and cleaning.

Prevention and early detection is key to survival

Did you know that lifestyle choice is the top cause of oral cancer? Thus, if you smoke, chew tobacco, consume alcohol excessively, exposed to sunlight for long durations, contracted HPV, you are at an increased risk of developing this devastating disease. The fortunate thing is that if oral cancer is detected and treated early, the survival rate increases to about 80 percent.

 

Ensure that your oral health is in top shape by going through Oral Cancer Screening in Overland Park, KS. Book an appointment with us at Haake Family Dental to learn more about this particular disease. Our dental office is located at 4601 W. 109th St. #222, Overland Park, KS 66211.