Oral cancer screenings are a crucial part of preventative health care. At Aberdeen Dentistry in Boynton Beach, Dr. Friedman and Dr. Markowitz offer comprehensive oral cancer screenings to detect any signs of cancerous or precancerous conditions in your mouth. These screenings are quick, non-invasive, and could potentially save your life. Early detection is key in the successful treatment of oral cancer, making regular screenings essential, especially for those with a higher risk due to lifestyle factors such as tobacco and alcohol use.
Why Should I Get Oral Cancer Screenings?
Oral cancer can be life-threatening if not diagnosed and treated early. Regular oral cancer screenings are the best way to catch the disease in its early stages when it's most treatable. These screenings are painless and can be performed during your regular dental check-up. They involve a visual inspection of your mouth and palpation of your jaw and neck to detect any abnormalities. If you have a history of heavy tobacco or alcohol use, or have a family history of cancer, these screenings can be vitally important.
Did you know…
Oral cancer affects tens of thousands of Americans each year, but early detection through screenings can significantly improve survival rates.
Ready to
schedule your appointment?
The Benefits Of Oral Cancer Screenings
Early Detection
Oral cancer screenings are designed to catch oral cancer before symptoms even appear. Early detection is crucial in effectively treating oral cancer and improving survival rates. The earlier the detection, the more treatment options are available, and the better the chances are for a complete recovery.
Quick and Non-Invasive
Oral cancer screenings are quick and non-invasive, usually taking less than five minutes to complete. They can be done during your regular dental check-up, requiring no additional appointments. The process involves a simple visual examination of your oral cavity and a physical exam of your neck and jaw.
Peace of Mind
Knowing that you're taking proactive steps to safeguard your oral health can provide significant peace of mind. Regular oral cancer screenings can help alleviate worries about oral cancer, especially if you're at high risk due to lifestyle factors or family history.
The Oral Cancer Screening Treatment Process
Visual Examination
The first step in an oral cancer screening is a visual examination. Your dentist will look for any abnormalities, such as sores, white or red patches, or lumps in your mouth, throat, tongue, gums, and tonsils. They will also check your neck and face for any swellings or asymmetry.
Physical Examination
The next step involves a physical examination. Your dentist will use gloved hands to feel the tissues in your mouth and also your throat to detect any lumps or other abnormalities. They will also palpate your neck and jaw to check for any unusual lumps or lymph node enlargement.
Further Testing, If Required
If any abnormalities are found during the visual or physical examination, your dentist may recommend further tests. This could include a biopsy, where a small sample of tissue is removed and sent to a lab for testing. Remember, not all abnormalities mean you have cancer, but further testing is essential to rule it out.