Why Oral Cancer Screenings Are a Must for Preventative Dental Care

Oral cancer is a serious condition that affects thousands of people each year. According to the Oral Cancer Foundation, around 54,000 Americans are diagnosed with oral cancer annually, and nearly 10,000 of them do not survive. Despite its severity, the importance of regular oral cancer screenings as part of preventive dental care is often overlooked.

At Art of Modern Dentistry, we focus on early detection of oral cancer to enhance the likelihood of effective treatment and recovery. Regular screenings are crucial to catch the initial indicators of oral cancer before it evolves into more severe phases.

Recognizing the Early Signs of Oral Cancer

Identifying oral cancer early is vital for effective treatment and can significantly increase the likelihood of survival.

Here are some key symptoms to watch for:

• Persistent Mouth Ulcers: Sores in the mouth that do not heal within two weeks.
• Unexplained Lumps: Be aware of any lumps or areas that have thickened in your gums, cheeks, or other mouth regions.
• Red or White Patches: Discoloration or patches on the tongue, gums, tonsils, or mouth lining.
• Difficulty Swallowing or Chewing: Pain or discomfort when chewing or swallowing.
• Numbness or Pain: Experiencing unexplained numbness or pain in the mouth, face, or neck.
• Changes in Voice: Persistent hoarseness or changes in the voice.
• Loose Teeth: Teeth becoming loose without any apparent reason.
• Ear Pain: Persistent ear pain without loss of hearing.
• Sore Throat: Chronic sore throat or a feeling that something is caught in the throat.

It’s crucial to be vigilant about even the slightest alterations in your oral health and consult a professional if you observe any enduring symptoms.

Regular dental checkups allow for the timely identification of these symptoms, which is crucial for early intervention. If you notice any of these signs, it is important to seek professional evaluation promptly.

What to Expect During an Oral Cancer Screening

During an oral cancer screening at Art of Modern Dentistry, our experienced dental professionals thoroughly examine your mouth and throat. The screening process involves both visual and physical examinations. Your dentist will look for any abnormalities, such as red or white bumps, hard lumps, or rough patches. They will also palpate the neck, cheeks, and other soft tissues to detect unusual lumps or masses. 

Sophisticated technology, like the VELscope system, enhances the ability to identify abnormal tissues invisible to the naked eye.

For more details on the advanced technology used in our screenings, visit our VELscope Oral Cancer Checks & Screening page.

How Oral Cancer Screenings Can Save Lives

Incorporating oral cancer screenings into your preventive health care routine is vital for early detection, which can be lifesaving. Identifying oral cancer in its initial stages leads to more effective treatments, less severe complications, and improved survival rates. Studies indicate that early diagnosis significantly boosts the chances of beating oral cancer. Making regular oral cancer screenings a part of your dental health practices is a proactive step toward maintaining your overall health and well-being.

Key Risk Factors and Strategies to Prevent Oral Cancer

Numerous factors can elevate the risk of developing oral cancer. These factors encompass tobacco use, excessive alcohol consumption, extended exposure to sunlight, a personal history of oral cancer, and infection with the human papillomavirus (HPV). Being aware of these risks is essential for making informed health decisions.

To minimize the risk of oral cancer, stopping smoking, limiting alcohol intake, using lip sunscreen, and contemplating HPV vaccination are recommended. Additionally, consistent dental examinations and cancer screenings play a pivotal role in the early identification and prevention of oral cancer.

For more information on preventing oral cancer, check out our blog post: April is Oral Cancer Awareness Month.

Dental Treatments Available in Chicago

At Art of Modern Dentistry, our primary focus is ensuring our patients’ oral health. We provide comprehensive screening services to identify oral cancer at an early stage. Frequent screenings are immensely significant, as early detection is fundamental in substantially enhancing the likelihood of a successful recovery.

Understanding the screening process, recognizing early symptoms, and engaging in preventive measures can significantly minimize your risk of developing oral cancer. 

Don’t hesitate to arrange your oral cancer screening with us today to take a crucial step in maintaining your health.

For more information or to book an appointment, visit our contact page.