Oral Cancer Checks: Your Best Defense Is Early Detection
At Confidence Family Dentistry, your health is our top priority. That’s why a quick, non-invasive oral cancer screening is a vital part of every routine dental exam. This simple check is our best tool for early detection, which dramatically increases the success rate of treatment.
The Importance of an Oral Cancer Screening
Oral cancer can affect any part of the mouth or throat, including the lips, tongue, gums, and cheeks. Unfortunately, it often goes unnoticed in its early stages because the symptoms can be subtle and painless. By the time a patient notices a problem, the cancer may have advanced, making it more difficult to treat.
By performing a screening at every visit, we can identify suspicious changes in the soft tissues of your mouth long before they become a bigger problem. Early detection allows for prompt treatment, which can be life-saving.
CONTACT Confidence Family Dentistry
At Confidence Family Dentistry, located in Webster, South Dakota, our passion is your smile. We believe that exceptional dental care goes beyond technical skill—it's about creating a compassionate and supportive environment where you feel heard, respected, and genuinely cared for.
What to Expect During the Screening
An oral cancer check is a completely painless procedure that takes just a few minutes. Dr. [Dentist’s Name] will conduct a thorough visual and physical examination:
- Visual Exam: We will look for any red or white patches, sores, lumps, or other abnormalities on your lips, tongue, gums, the roof of your mouth, and the inside of your cheeks.
- Physical Exam: We will gently feel the tissues of your neck and jaw to check for any lumps or tender areas.
If we find anything that looks suspicious, we may recommend monitoring the area or referring you to a specialist for further evaluation.
Common Risk Factors for Oral Cancer
While oral cancer can affect anyone, there are certain factors that can increase your risk:
- Tobacco Use: Smoking or chewing tobacco is the number one risk factor.
- Heavy Alcohol Consumption: Excessive use of alcohol is a major risk factor.
- HPV (Human Papillomavirus): Certain strains of HPV are a growing cause of oral cancer.
- Excessive Sun Exposure: Unprotected sun exposure can increase the risk of cancer on the lips.
No matter your lifestyle, everyone should receive a regular oral cancer screening. It’s a simple step that could save your life. Schedule your next dental exam today and take proactive control of your health.
