At SmilexPro Dentistry, we prioritize your overall health, and that includes offering comprehensive oral cancer screenings. Our experienced dentist in 77065 provides thorough screenings as part of your routine dental care, because early detection of oral cancer can significantly improve treatment outcomes. Regular screenings are a vital part of your defense against oral cancer, and we are here to help protect your health.
During an oral cancer screening, our dentist will carefully examine your lips, tongue, gums, mouth, and throat for any abnormalities that may indicate cancer or have the potential to become cancerous. If you’ve been experiencing any symptoms for more than a week, it’s important to schedule an appointment right away. Symptoms that could signal oral cancer include:
- Persistent ear pain
- Unexplained bleeding in the mouth
- Sores in the mouth that don’t heal
- White or red patches in the mouth
- Unexplained weight loss
- Lumps or swelling in or around the mouth
- A sore throat without sinus issues
- A sensation of something stuck in your throat
- Pain or difficulty with swallowing, speaking, or moving the jaw or tongue
Oral cancer is a serious condition, with one American adult dying from it every hour. While anyone can develop oral cancer, certain factors can increase the risk, such as genetic predisposition, long-term sun exposure, poor diet, and excessive alcohol consumption. Men are more likely to develop oral cancer than women, and those with gastro-esophageal reflux disease (GERD) are also at heightened risk. Most notably, tobacco users are six times more likely to develop oral cancer than non-users.
The key to successful treatment is early detection. When caught in its early stages, oral cancer has an 80-90% survival rate. Early diagnosis allows for less invasive treatments and a higher chance of recovery. However, cancers detected in later stages often spread beyond the mouth, making treatment more complex.
At SmilexPro Dentistry, we welcome new patients and are committed to providing expert care, including oral cancer screenings. If you would like more information or want to schedule a screening with our dentist in 77065, contact our office today. Early detection can save your life!
