Why Should Oral Cancer Screenings Be a Priority in Your Dental Checkups?

Oral cancer is a life-threatening condition if not diagnosed and treated early. It can surface in any part of the mouth, including the tongue, the lips, the floor of the mouth, the cheeks, the roof of the mouth, the sinuses, and the throat. Unfortunately, oral cancer often goes unnoticed in its early stages, as it can progress without causing pain or visible symptoms that a person would typically notice.

The Importance of Oral Cancer Screenings

Oral cancer screenings are examinations performed by a dentist to look for signs of cancer or precancerous conditions in your mouth. The goal of oral cancer screening is to identify mouth cancer early when there is a greater chance for a cure. Screening tests are used to find oral cancer before a person has any symptoms, which can help find cancer at an early stage. When abnormal tissue or cancer is found early, it may be easier to treat or cure. By making oral cancer screenings a routine part of dental check-ups, we can catch the disease in its earliest, most treatable stages.

The Role of Dental Check-ups in Oral Cancer Detection

Dental check-ups serve a vital role in oral cancer detection. While these routine visits are often associated with a cleaning or evaluation of dental health, they also provide the opportunity for a thorough examination of the mouth's overall health, including a screening for oral cancer.

During a typical dental check-up, your dentist will conduct an oral cancer screening by visually and physically examining your mouth to look for any signs of oral cancer, such as sores, discolored tissue, or abnormal lumps. If the dentist identifies anything unusual, they may order additional tests or refer you to a specialist for further evaluation.

Regular dental check-ups are not only crucial for maintaining good oral hygiene but also serve as a preventative measure against oral cancer. By routinely examining your mouth, your dentist can detect signs of the disease early, which can lead to more effective treatment and a better prognosis.

The Benefits of Early Detection and Intervention

The benefits of early detection and intervention of oral cancer are significant. When found early, the five-year survival rate for oral cancer is 84%. However, the survival rate drops to 65% when the cancer is detected in the later stages, and if the cancer has spread to other parts of the body, the five-year survival rate is only 39%.

Early detection also means that treatments are likely to be less invasive and more successful. This not only improves survival rates but also preserves the quality of life. Moreover, early intervention can limit the physical effects of oral cancer treatment, such as disfigurement and difficulties in talking, eating, and even breathing.

How Often Should Oral Cancer Screenings Be Done?

The frequency of oral cancer screenings depends on your individual risk factors. However, the American Cancer Society recommends an oral cancer exam every three years for people over the age of 20 and annually for those over 40.

If you're a tobacco or heavy alcohol user, have a family history of oral cancer, or have been exposed to HPV, more frequent screenings may be recommended. It's crucial to discuss your personal risk factors with your dentist to determine the best screening schedule for you.

Conclusion

Oral cancer screenings should be a priority in your dental check-ups. With oral cancer rates continually increasing, these simple, quick exams could be life-saving. They allow for the early detection and intervention of oral cancer, which significantly increases survival rates and reduces the risk of severe health complications.

During your next dental check-up, ensure that an oral cancer screening is included. It’s a small step that can have a significant impact on your overall health. For more information, visit Concierge Smile Boutique in our Culver City, California, office. Please call (424) 404-6400 or text (424) 361-6272 to schedule an appointment today.