At Asbury Dental & Implants Center, our expert dentist in 32043 emphasizes the importance of regular oral cancer screenings as a crucial component of comprehensive dental care. Early detection of oral cancer can significantly improve the success rate of treatment, making regular screenings your first line of defense.
During an oral cancer screening, our dentist will thoroughly examine your lips, tongue, gums, mouth, and throat for any abnormalities that could indicate or develop into cancer. If you have been experiencing any symptoms of oral cancer for more than a week without improvement, it’s essential to schedule an appointment immediately. Symptoms to watch for include:
- Ear pain
- Unexplained mouth bleeding
- Mouth sores that don’t heal
- White or red patches in your mouth
- Dramatic weight loss
- Lumps or swellings in or around your mouth
- Sore throat without other sinus symptoms
- Sensation of something caught in the back of your throat
- Pain or difficulty in swallowing, speaking, or moving your jaw or tongue
Oral cancer claims the life of one American every hour. While anyone can develop oral cancer, certain factors increase the risk. These include genetic predisposition, prolonged sun exposure, an unhealthy diet, and excessive alcohol consumption. Men are more likely than women to develop oral cancer, and those with gastro-esophageal reflux disease (GERD) are at higher risk. Tobacco users are six times more likely to develop oral cancer compared to non-users.
The success of oral cancer treatment depends on the size, type, and stage of the cancer at the time of detection. Early detection significantly increases the chances of a successful recovery. When caught in its early stages, oral cancer has an 80-90% survival rate, as early detection allows for earlier and often less invasive treatment. Conversely, later-stage cancers are more complex and may have spread beyond the mouth, necessitating more aggressive treatment.
Asbury Dental & Implants Center is accepting new patients and is committed to providing comprehensive care, including life-saving oral cancer screenings. If you would like more information or wish to schedule a screening, contact our office today.