At Southbridge Dentistry & Implants, our expert dentist emphasizes the importance of regular oral cancer screenings as a critical component of comprehensive dental health care. Early detection significantly increases the success rate of cancer treatment, making routine screenings your first line of defense against oral cancer.
Comprehensive Oral Cancer Screening
During your screening, our dentist will meticulously examine your lips, tongue, gums, mouth, and throat for any abnormalities that could be or become cancerous. We pay close attention to any symptoms you report. If you have experienced any of the following symptoms for more than a week, it’s crucial to schedule an appointment with our dentist in Southbridge immediately:
- Ear pain
- Unexplained mouth bleeding
- Mouth sores that don’t heal
- White or red patches in your mouth
- Dramatic weight loss
- Lumps or swellings in or around your mouth
- Sore throat without other sinus symptoms
- The sensation of something caught in the back of your throat
- Pain or difficulty in swallowing, speaking, or moving your jaw or tongue
Understanding the Risks
Oral cancer claims the life of one adult American every hour. While anyone can develop oral cancer, several risk factors can increase your likelihood, including:
- Genetic predisposition
- Prolonged sun exposure
- Unhealthy diet
- Excessive alcohol consumption
- Being male (oral cancer is more common in men than women)
- Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)
- Tobacco use (users are six times more likely to develop oral cancer than non-users)
Importance of Early Detection
The success of oral cancer treatment depends on the size, type, and stage of cancer at the time of detection. Early detection is vital, as oral cancers found in their initial stages have an 80-90% survival rate. This high rate is due to the fact that early-stage cancers are typically less complex and easier to treat. When oral cancers are detected early, they can often be removed with less invasive procedures. Conversely, cancers found in later stages are usually larger, more complex, and have often spread beyond the mouth.
Schedule Your Screening Today
We are currently accepting new patients and encourage you to take advantage of our comprehensive oral cancer screening services. For more information about oral cancer and to schedule your screening, contact Southbridge Dentistry & Implants today.
Hours
Monday–Friday: 9 a.m.–6 p.m.
Saturday: 9 a.m.–3 p.m.
Sunday: Closed
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