Oral Cancer Screening There is nothing scarier than being diagnosed with cancer. It is a terrifying disease that has caused millions of people to lose loved ones. However, it does not have to be as scary as it is. If caught early, cancer can be handled and eliminated, and patients can go on to live a healthy, full, long life.It is extremely important to be detected early with oral cancer because it is just as dangerous as other forms of cancer. What should be done to accomplish that? Receive regular oral cancer screenings from a qualified oral health care professional. The sooner oral cancer is detected, the better the chances that it will not spread to other parts of the body and present a greater risk. What Happens in an Oral Cancer Screening?How does an oral cancer screening work? A dentist will most likely perform a basic oral cancer screening, which includes a comprehensive examination of your lips, inside and out, your tongue and gums, the interior of your cheeks, and of course the roof of your mouth. Dentures must be removed if you wear them so the doctor can examine the tissue under them. A thorough examination is required. In addition to putting one finger under your tongue, your dental professional may also use a few fingers under your chin to feel the tissue between them. Your dentist may also check under your jaw. Every part of your mouth is examined thoroughly to determine whether you have cancer or other abnormalities. Our team at Robert F. Walker Jr. DDS knows how important it is that an oral cancer test is done correctly, and the results are accurate. We take this task seriously and will do everything in our power to make sure it is concluded properly and professionally. Your health will be in the best hands with our specialized, expert team. What Causes Oral Cancer?In spite of living a generally healthy life, some people are diagnosed with cancer in spite of making certain lifestyle choices and habits. A patient who uses tobacco products. drinks excessive amounts of alcohol, or is positive for HPV has an increased risk. A sudden, dramatic change in the overall appearance of your tongue or bleeding gums may be cause for concern, but these changes are not usually related to cancer. Cancer might not present any symptoms at all in some cases. What are the Signs of Oral Cancer?There are multiple signs that could indicate you may have oral cancer, even if it is still minor and has yet to grow beyond the mouth. Oftentimes a lump or spots in the mouth are a sign of cancer. Additionally, anything unusual about a patient's saliva is another indicator of cancer in the mouth. An oral cancer exam from your dentist is a great way to discover if you have cancer but more work may be needed, including a biopsy if suspicious tissue or lumps are found. Schedule Your Oral Cancer Screening TodayThe only thing worse than cancer is cancer that goes unchecked and undiagnosed. That is why it is so important that you schedule an oral cancer screening with our team of experts at Robert F. Walker Jr. DDS. We will treat an oral cancer screening with the utmost importance and care that it needs, and we will walk any step of the journey ahead with you, keeping you healthy and safe and comfortable through it all. You need only the very best when it comes to an oral cancer screening and that is exactly what you will get with us. Call us today at (602) 782-4856 to take the next pivotal steps. |
