Every April, Oral Cancer Awareness Month helps remind people about the dangers of oral cancer and why finding it early is so important for saving lives. Oral cancer affects thousands of people each year, yet many cases go undiagnosed until they reach an advanced stage. One of the best ways to stay safe is by getting regular oral cancer screenings. These can catch early signs of the disease before it becomes serious.
Understanding Oral Cancer
Oral cancer is a type of cancer that can grow in the mouth, including the lips, tongue, cheeks, and throat. Anyone can get it, but some things can make it more likely to happen, such as:
- Tobacco use (smoking or chewing tobacco)
- Excessive alcohol consumption
- HPV (human papillomavirus) infection
- A history of oral cancer
- Prolonged sun exposure (linked to lip cancer)
- Poor oral hygiene and diet
Early detection through oral cancer screenings makes treatment more effective and improves survival rates. That’s why regular dental checkups are so important.
The Importance of Early Detection
Oral cancer is much easier to treat when it’s found early. However, many people don’t recognize the symptoms until the disease has progressed, making treatment more difficult. Common signs of oral cancer include:
- Persistent mouth sores that don’t heal
- Unexplained bleeding in the mouth
- White or red patches located on the gums, tongue, or cheeks
- Difficulty chewing, swallowing, or moving the jaw
- Numbness in the mouth or lips
- Chronic sore throat or hoarseness
Regular oral cancer screenings allow dentists to identify these warning signs early, increasing the chances of successful treatment.
What Happens During an Oral Cancer Screening?
At Riverside Dental, we prioritize your overall health, which is why our team conducts thorough oral cancer screenings during routine checkups. Oral cancer is a serious disease, but finding it early makes treatment much more effective. Our screenings are fast, painless, and could save your life. Here’s what you can expect during your visit:
Visual Examination
Your dentist will check inside your mouth, including your tongue, gums, cheeks, and throat, for any unusual sores, color changes, or lumps. Even subtle changes in tissue color or texture can be early indicators of concern.
Physical Examination
The dentist will gently feel around your jaw, neck, and lymph nodes, checking for any lumps, swelling, or abnormalities that might not be visible during the visual exam. This step ensures any hidden signs of oral cancer are thoroughly examined.
Additional Testing
If anything suspicious is detected, the dentist may recommend further tests to confirm a diagnosis. This could involve a biopsy to analyze tissue samples or imaging tests such as X-rays. These additional steps are essential to ensure any concerns are addressed promptly and accurately.
These screenings only take a few minutes but can make a world of difference in identifying oral cancer early when it’s most treatable. At Riverside Dental, we’re here to support your health every step of the way. Don’t wait—schedule your next checkup today and take a proactive step toward preventing oral cancer.
Who Should Get Screened?
Everyone should undergo regular oral cancer screenings. However, these screenings are especially important for those who are at higher risk. If you use tobacco, drink heavily, or have a family history of cancer, screenings should be a priority. Even if you don’t have risk factors, oral cancer can still develop, making routine dental visits essential for everyone.
Oral Cancer and Lifestyle Choices
While oral cancer screenings are crucial for early detection, you can also take steps to reduce your risk:
- Quit smoking and avoid tobacco products
- Limit alcohol intake
- Eat a healthy diet with plenty of fruits and vegetables
- Use lip balm with SPF to protect against sun exposure
- Maintaining good oral hygiene by brushing and flossing daily
- Going to your dentist regularly for checkups and screenings
By making these lifestyle changes, you can lower your chances of developing oral cancer while still ensuring early detection through oral cancer screenings.
Raising Awareness for Oral Cancer
Oral Cancer Awareness Month is the perfect time to spread the word about the importance of oral cancer screenings. Encourage your friends and family to schedule their screenings and educate them on the risk factors and warning signs of the disease. The more people know about oral cancer, the better their chances of catching it early and receiving life-saving treatment.
Contact Us Today
At Riverside Dental, we are committed to your health and well-being. Our skilled team offers thorough oral cancer screenings to catch early signs of the disease and ensure quick treatment. If you haven’t had a screening recently, now is the perfect time to schedule one. Call us today at (920) 262-2176 to book your appointment and take an important step toward protecting your health!
