Oral Cancer Screening
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Oral Cancer Screening Available in Richmond, VA
Going to the dentist every six months is a simple step that can make a big difference in your oral health. Along with identifying and preventing common dental diseases, such as tooth decay and gum disease, routine dental exams can help detect oral cancer early. Before scheduling your next dental checkup at Glen Forest Dental Co in Richmond, you should know how regular oral cancer screenings could benefit you.
What is an Oral Cancer Screening?
Oral cancer screenings take place during routine dental exams. A dentist performs them to look for signs of oral cancer. Because oral cancer can often develop without presenting any obvious signs to the patient and can quickly worsen or spread to other areas of the mouth, having your mouth examined by a dentist is an important step in protecting your mouth’s well-being. Fortunately, oral cancer can often be quickly treated and even cured when detected early. While oral cancer could affect anyone, it’s most common in people who smoke cigarettes or excessively drink alcohol.
What Occurs During an Oral Cancer Screening Appointment?
At Glen Forest Dental, our experienced dental team is eager to help you maintain a healthy, beautiful smile for years to come. While having your mouth screened for oral cancer may sound like a scary experience, it’s really fast, easy, and painless. During your oral cancer screening appointment, the dentist will examine your mouth, including your gums, tongue, throat, and cheeks. They’ll also gently feel your throat and inside of your mouth for lumps or thick areas that could also indicate cancer. If the dentist does recognize something unusual or concerning, they’ll create a personalized treatment plan to restore the health of your smile.
What Are the Benefits of Regular Appointments?
It’s important to visit the dentist for routine dental checkups twice a year, in part to undergo regular oral cancer screenings. While you may be tempted to skip a regular dental checkup because your mouth appears in good condition, this is never a good idea. Your dentist is trained to look for and identify signs of oral cancer that you may haven’t noticed yourself. Regular dental visits offer many benefits, including detecting oral cancer diagnosis early, which can make a significant difference in treating the disease as effectively as possible.
What Are the Most Common Symptoms of Oral Cancer?
Oral cancer symptoms can vary greatly between individuals. Some individuals may experience several noticeable signs of the condition, while others may not notice any at all. Common symptoms of oral cancer include:
- Red or white spots
- Sores that won’t heal
- Difficulty chewing or swallowing
- Thick patches
- Oral pain
- Persistent cough
- Lumps or bumps
If you notice one of these symptoms, or any other unusual sign, don’t hesitate to schedule an appointment with your dentist. Early detection is key in ensuring your recovery is smooth, quick, and effective.
Schedule Your Oral Cancer Screening at Glen Forest Dental
Oral cancer is a serious disease that shouldn’t be taken lightly. The good news is that oral cancer is often preventable and treatable with one simple step: visiting the dentist twice a year. If you’re overdue for a routine dental exam and oral cancer screening, there’s no better time to prioritize your oral health. The friendly team at Glen Forest Dental is eager to show you how convenient, comfortable, and easy taking care of your smile can be. Contact us today to schedule your next appointment in Richmond, VA!