At Campbell Premier Dental, we want to remind all our patients of the importance of regular oral cancer screenings as part of your overall dental health care. Just like with any form of cancer, early detection is key to successful treatment. Our experienced Campbell Dentist is here to provide thorough oral cancer screenings to help catch any potential issues early and give you the best chance at recovery.
During an oral cancer screening, our dentist will carefully examine your lips, tongue, gums, mouth, and throat for any abnormalities that could signal cancer. We also take your medical history into account, paying close attention to any symptoms you may have experienced. If you’ve noticed any persistent oral issues lasting more than a week, we strongly recommend scheduling an appointment with your Campbell Dentist. Symptoms to watch for include:
- Ear pain
- Unexplained mouth bleeding
- Mouth sores that do not heal
- Red or white patches in the mouth
- Sudden weight loss
- Lumps or swelling in or around the mouth
- A sore throat with no other sinus symptoms
- A sensation of something stuck in the back of the throat
- Pain or difficulty swallowing, speaking, or moving the jaw or tongue
Oral cancer can be deadly, with one American dying from it every hour. While anyone can develop oral cancer, certain factors can increase your risk. These include a family history of cancer, excessive sun exposure, poor diet, heavy alcohol consumption, and tobacco use. Oral cancer is more common in men than women, and individuals with gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) are also at an increased risk.
The earlier oral cancer is detected, the better the chance of successful treatment. When caught in the early stages, oral cancers have an 80-90% survival rate. This is because early detection allows for quicker, less invasive treatments. In contrast, later stages of cancer tend to be more complex, often requiring more extensive treatment and possibly spreading beyond the mouth.
At Campbell Premier Dental, we offer comprehensive oral cancer screenings for new and existing patients. If you would like more information about oral cancer or would like to schedule a screening, contact our office today. We’re here to help you maintain a healthy, cancer-free smile.
