Oral Cancer Screening Oral cancer screenings represent one of the best forms of preventive care in dentistry. Through oral cancer screenings, you and your dentist will be able to pinpoint even the earliest signs of developing mouth cancer, and hopefully prevent further damage from happening. Oral cancer screenings come with many benefits, and you should always be ready for one as your dentist may recommend it at any time upon visualization and inspecting your mouth, throat, lips and gums. If you feel it is time to get an oral cancer screening visit us at Kaw Valley Family Dental. Who is at risk of Oral Cancer?Some people are more at risk for oral cancer than others. People who drink alcohol and smoke are more at risk for oral cancer. Also, those who have HPV (Human Papillomavirus infection) have a higher chance of getting oral cancer. If you meet all of these categories it is extremely important to get regular checkups and other treatments that can help you to not be at such high risk of oral cancer. In case your dentist finds any cancerous cells, we will talk to you and refer you to specialists who will take care of the problem. Oral cancer can be treated, especially in its early stages, and this is why it is important to see the dentist regularly to detect such issues early on. What are the different stages of Oral Cancer Screening?A dentist will perform an oral cancer screening when you come in for your routine dental checkup. There are three stages of an oral cancer screening. The first step of an oral cancer screening is a visual exam. The dentist will look at all areas of your mouth including your cheeks, gums, tongue, lips and throat for any discolorations or lumps. A common place for this type of cancer to develop is on the front part of your tongue so it is important for your dentist to examine this area very closely. The second step of an oral cancer screening is to feel the tissues in your mouth. The dentist will feel around all areas of your mouth including your cheeks, jaw, gums and throat to check for any lumps or bumps that might be developing under the surface. The third step of an oral cancer screening is to look underneath the tissues in your mouth. If a lump or bump is discovered during one of the two previous steps then a mirror will be used to see underneath your tongue, behind your teeth, and around other hard-to-see areas inside your mouth. When Should I Have an Oral Cancer Screening?The oral cancer screening is a simple procedure to detect changes in your mouth that could be an early sign of cancer or other health conditions. It should be done at least once a year with a professional dentist. For more details about oral cancer screening visit us at Kaw Valley Family Dental. Our dentist will perform the procedure and give you tips on how to care for your mouth. You can book an appointment through 913-441-3373. |
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