What is Oral Cancer Screening?
Oral cancer screening is a preventive exam to detect oral cancer or other abnormalities in the mouth, throat or neck. This non-invasive procedure is done by a dentist and looks for early symptoms that may become cancer. Oral cancer screenings can save lives by catching problems early when they can be treated. Dentists check for any growths, sores or areas that bleed during this exam. This simple process is part of your overall health.
Oral cancer can affect various areas of the oral cavity, including the lips, gums, tongue, and throat. The screening examines all these areas for abnormalities. Tobacco use and other risk factors like age and health history can increase your chances of developing oral cancer. If diagnosed early, the treatment is more likely to succeed, emphasizing the importance of regular check-ups. Our dentists ensure the process is seamless and comfortable for all patients.
Benefits of Oral Cancer Screening
Early detection of oral cancer can increase your chances of successful treatment. Oral cancer screenings detect abnormalities such as lumps, sores or discolorations before they become life threatening. The process is quick, painless and gives you peace of mind by addressing potential problems early.
Key Benefits of Oral Cancer Screening:
- Early Detection Saves Lives: Regular screenings catch oral cancer early, increasing chances of successful treatment. Detecting abnormalities before they get worse allows patients to get medical attention sooner.
- Prevention of Life-Threatening Conditions: Oral cancer can be life threatening if left untreated. Early detection of symptoms allows our dentists to recommend treatment to stop cancer in its tracks.
- Improved Overall Health: A healthy mouth is part of overall health. Regular screenings keep your oral cavity free of abnormalities and promote overall health.
- Non-Invasive and Painless: Oral cancer exams are quick and non-invasive. Patients feel little to no discomfort during the process so it’s easy to prioritize this important health check.
- Personalized Care for Increased Risk: Patients with a history of tobacco use, certain health conditions or family history of cancer can benefit from personalized screenings. Cambridge Dentistry tailors the exam to each patient’s risk factors.