Often, the most important things you do for your oral health are not flashy or spectacular but quite mundane. Why is this? Because it’s through routine maintenance and simple preventative care that serious issues are averted.
This is true with your car, your home, and your dental and overall health. When there’s a minor problem, and you catch it early, you save yourself time, money, and physical and emotional discomfort.
Today, we’re looking at the importance of one of the most significant types of preventive care your dentist can provide: screenings for oral cancers.
The Importance of Oral Cancer Screenings
Oral cancer screenings are a vital part of every dental check-up, and their importance cannot be overstated. Regular oral cancer screenings are particularly important for individuals who use tobacco products, consume alcohol, or have a genetic predisposition to cancer.
However, cancers of the mouth, lips, and tongue, all potentially deadly diseases, affect people of all ages and genders, even those with no identifiable risk factors which lead to healthy lifestyles and practice good oral hygiene.
Fortunately, when detected early, oral cancer is highly treatable, and the chances of survival significantly increase. This, simply, is the importance of oral cancer screenings.
How Does a Dentist Screen for Oral Cancers?
Dental visits offer an ideal opportunity for oral cancer screenings, as dentists and dental hygienists are trained to detect abnormalities in the mouth. During an oral cancer screening, your dentist or dental hygienist will examine your mouth for any signs of cancer or precancerous conditions, including abnormal growths, sores, or discolored patches of tissue in the mouth, lips, and tongue. If any suspicious areas are found, further tests are recommended to determine if cancer is present.
By having regular oral cancer screenings during dental visits, individuals increase their chances of detecting oral cancer in its early stages, which can ultimately save lives.
Catch It Early: Oral Cancer Screenings in Wilmington, DE
If you’re in the Wilmington area and want an oral cancer screening for early detection, contact dentist Dr. Bruce Matthews and the team at Dr. Matthews Wilmington to schedule a consultation.