Oral Cancer Screening
The Oral Cancer Foundation estimates that almost fifty thousand people in the U.S. are diagnosed with oral cancer each year. Over nine thousand people lose their lives to this disease. Like any cancer, patients who receive early detection and general dentistry treatment have the best chance of overcoming this disease. Our team at Dental Care Center at Kennestone wants to protect your oral and overall health. We offer oral cancer screening for our patients as part of our commitment to your health.
Oral cancers often do not have noticeable symptoms in the early stages, making it difficult to identify early. However, there are symptoms to watch for that can alert you to seek medical attention. Some of the symptoms of oral or mouth cancers include:
- Red or white spots on the inside of the mouth
- Lumps in the lips, gums or tongue
- Sores in the mouth that do not heal
- Pain or numbness in the mouth or throat
- Long-lasting hoarseness
If you have any of these symptoms, you should seek diagnosis from a physician. High-risk factors for oral cancers include excessive alcohol use, tobacco use and exposure to the HPV virus. Those over the age of forty are at higher risk for oral cancers.
Identify Mouth Cancer Early
Many of the symptoms listed above do not appear until the later stages of oral cancers. However, oral cancer screenings can detect early signs of tissue changes in the mouth that are still very small. Using a special light, these minor changes can be detected before they are visible. This is the best chance of catching mouth or oral cancers in the earliest stages when treatment has a higher success rate.
As part of your routine dental visits, you should consider adding oral cancer screenings. Our dentist can include this screening as part of your regular checkup. It only takes a few minutes and could be life-saving. Ask about oral cancer screenings at your next checkup. Contact Dental Care Center at Kennestone today to schedule an appointment for you or a family member.
