When was the last time you had an oral cancer screening? We urge adults to undergo one at least once every year, and these can allow us to identify areas of cancerous or precancerous tissues. In today’s blog, your Prairie Village, KS, dentist talks scheduling your 2025 oral cancer screening.
When to Have a Screening
As we mentioned above, we believe in an oral cancer screening at least once a year. According to the Oral Cancer Foundation, of the 53,000 people who will be diagnosed with the disease in 2025, half will succumb to it in just five years. Despite this high mortality rate, the cancer is treatable. The high mortality rate is because the disease is rarely caught in the early stages. But with a screening every few months, you increase the chances of an early diagnosis! The process is simple. We will conduct a visual exam and use advanced technology to look for possible cancerous or precancerous tissues. If we find any, then we can recommend a biopsy and refer you to specialists as needed.
Warning Signs of Oral Cancer
What warning signs should you be aware of? People with oral cancer may notice sores, lesions, rough patches, and areas of red and white splotches in the interior of the mouth that last for more than two weeks. If there is prolonged hoarseness, sore throat, changes to your voice, and unexplained weight loss, then again you may need to undergo a screening to see if you need a biopsy and treatment. As a rule, you should let us know about any changes to your smile.
Possible Risk Factors
There are a few common risk factors for the disease, which means you can take steps to lower your overall risk. For example, using tobacco products, excessive UV light exposure, and too much alcohol consumption could all increase the risk of the disease. Avoid smoking, vaping, and using other tobacco products, and cut back on the amount of alcohol you consume. If you’re going to be outdoors, wear sunscreen and protective clothing. That said, even if you follow these recommendations, you still need a screening, as some people have developed oral cancer without these risk factors.
If you have any questions about our oral cancer screenings, or if you would like to schedule your first visit of 2025, then contact our team today to learn more.
Schedule Your Next Visit With Dr. Browne, D.D.S.
Our team wants to help you maintain good oral health, and that means stopping by our office every few months. To find out more about our exams and screenings, and to schedule one for yourself, then call Dr. Browne in Prairie Village, KS, at 913-901-8585.
