As part of our approach to dental exams for adults, we can conduct oral cancer screenings. According to the Oral Cancer Foundation, over 53,000 people will be diagnosed this year alone, and over half will succumb to it within five years. But to help increase the chances of discovery and recovery, your Prairie Village, KS, dentist can offer a screening for oral cancer!
When You Need an Oral Cancer Screening
When do adults need to have an oral cancer screening? Experts recommend one once a year and we agree. We offer them as part of the checkup process, so we can regularly examine you for signs of possible cancerous or precancerous areas. In addition to a visual exam, we will employ digital x-rays and other advanced imaging systems, including intraoral cameras, so that we can make a diagnosis with accuracy and precision. As we mentioned in the opening, the high mortality rate is simply because the disease is rarely caught in the early stages. But with routine visits, your chances of an early diagnosis and recovery increase significantly.
Warning Signs You Need to Recognize
In addition to seeing our team for routine visits every six months and having a screening every year, you can also let us know if you encounter any changes to your smile. Possible warning signs may include areas of red and white spots in the interior of your cheeks and the palate of your mouth. Portions of the interior of your mouth and tongue that itch, are discolored, or have sores that do not heal after a week or two are also possible warning signs. You should also let us know about changes to your voice, sudden weight loss, persistent sore throat or hoarseness, or lesions or ulcers that don’t heal. Our team can conduct an examination and see if a biopsy needs to be ordered for the area, which starts you on the path toward identifying your risk and selecting treatment.
Preventive Actions
Can action be taken to help lower overall risk? To help lower your risk, you could be sure to wear sun protection when outside and exposed to UV light for prolonged periods. You can also avoid tobacco products and drinking alcohol excessively. While these are common risk factors, oral cancer can develop in people who do not have these underlying factors, so be sure you attend your screening every year!
Call Dr. Robert Browne, D.D.S. Offers Comprehensive Dental Care
Our team wants to help safeguard your smile and handle issues that could threaten your overall health. To find out more about general dentistry, or to schedule an appointment, please call Dr. Robert M. Browne, D.D.S. in Prairie Village, KS at (913) 901-8585.
