What is The Importance of Oral Cancer Screening? 

Oral cancer screening is done to detect signs of cancer and increase the chances of you surviving the disease. It is reported that around 53,000 adults are diagnosed with cancer, and 9,000 succumb to its effects annually.

According to the Oral Cancer Foundation, the problem with the increase in the fatality rate of oral cancer is late detection.

Getting screened regularly can increase the chances of the dentist detecting cancerous lesions before it is too late to combat them effectively.

How Can You Detect Precancerous Lesions?

Oral cancer, in its early stages, presents no symptoms. But as the disease progresses, you will develop soreness, persistent sore throat, and asymmetrical lesions. You may also develop unexplained swollen lymph nodes and lumps on the side of the neck. When you notice these symptoms, it is important to visit a dentist’s office near you as soon as possible.

What Can You Expect During Your Appointment?

Our dentist in 80503 will begin checking your salivary gland for abnormal size or inflammation. They will also examine the tongue, palate, underneath the back of the mouth, and cheeks.

If there is any problem, the dentist will recommend further testing, such as a biopsy, to determine if the lesions are cancerous or not.

Can Oral Cancer Be Prevented?

You can lessen your chances of developing oral cancer with the following tips:

• Avoid tobacco, whether through smoking, chewing, or second-hand smoke. Tobacco is known to affect your oral and overall health, and it is the primary cause of oral cancer.
•  Limit your consumption of alcohol because it reduces your overall immunity

Stay away from direct sunlight between 12 and 3 pm. If you do go out, apply sunscreen to protect against UV light.

• Eat nutritious foods and have a healthy lifestyle to support your oral and overall health too.
• Visit our dentist in Longmont for an assessment and deep cleaning.

Schedule an Appointment

Visit Mertz Family Dentistry for more information about oral cancer screening, its importance, how the procedure is done, and what you can expect.