5 Ways an Oral Cancer Screening Protects Your Health

One​‍​‌‍​‍‌​‍​‌‍​‍‌ of the most vital, yet frequently ignored, components of a regular dental check-up is oral cancer screening. They do not take long, are painless, and can save your life. Our practice, Riverwalk Dental Arts, is very aware of this, and we therefore recommend comprehensive oral cancer screening as our primary preventive measure to detect potential issues at an early stage. So, how exactly do these screenings protect you from cancer?

Early Detection Can Save Lives

Oral cancer eventually makes it into late-stage diagnoses, as it rarely shows any symptoms at the early stages. One can identify abnormal tissues through an oral cancer screening; thus, they have the opportunity for successful treatment very early in the stages. The first time finding of cancer drastically increases the chances of a complete cure and dramatically lessens the need for disfiguring procedures.

A Comprehensive Check of Your Oral Health

An oral cancer screening in Rock Hill, SC, is the most thorough check of the mouth a dentist can perform. The inspection includes not only the tongue, gums, and cheeks, but also the roof and floor of the mouth. They are also checking the throat and neck for any lumps and signs of cancerous tissue. This exhaustive assessment helps identify signs of cancer even before the patient can notice them.

Identifies Risk Factors Early

Certain factors might lead to lifestyle habits, such as smoking, heavy drinking, and eating poorly, which in turn put oral cancer risk relatively high. Continuing in the same pattern, your dentist can spot these risks and thus warn you against following unhealthy habits. Not only is this a plus for your health, but it also prompts you to gather the facts and make a wise decision.

Helps Prevent Further Complications

One of the benefits of oral cancer screening at its earliest stages is that it improves treatment outcomes and reduces the risk of other complications associated with the disease. Left oral cancer, for instance, may metastasize to different areas, thereby making it harder to treat and less effective. The performance of oral cancer screening in Rock Hill, SC, is thus a good step toward preventing such disastrous effects.

Promotes Overall Wellness

You are actually performing a self-check of your overall health when you schedule oral cancer screenings during your regular dental visits. Oral health is the root of many systemic diseases, so taking good care of your mouth can positively affect your overall health.

Conclusion: Protect Your Health with a Simple Screening

If you haven’t had an oral cancer screening in Rock Hill, SC, recently, it is definitely worth getting one. Riverwalk Dental Arts is devoted to your health and happiness. Our professional team performs thorough oral cancer screenings to detect the earliest symptoms of the disease and guide you toward the best possible health.

Schedule your next oral cancer screening at our dental office as soon as possible. Don’t risk your health, solve problems if there are any, and keep your smile shining!

FAQs

What is an oral cancer screening?

An oral cancer screening is a regularly scheduled dental examination focused on detecting signs of oral cancer. In addition, the dentist examines the oral cavity and surrounding areas for other abnormal conditions.

How often should I have an oral cancer screening?

It is necessary to go for an oral cancer screening at least once a year, more so if you have certain risk factors like smoking or heavy alcohol intake.

What are the risk factors of oral cancer?

Risk factors for oral cancer are the use of tobacco, the consumption of alcohol, exposure to the sun, and antecedents of cancer in the family.

What will be done if something abnormal is found?

If abnormal tissue is detected, a biopsy is the most likely next step, along with referral to a specialist for further examination.

Can an oral cancer screening identify other oral health problems as well?

Yes, oral cancer screening can also detect issues like gum disease, tooth decay, and other oral cavity problems at their initial stages.

Is the process of oral cancer screening uncomfortable or painful?

Definitely not; the procedure is totally non-invasive, and usually, no discomfort is felt.

What happens during an oral cancer screening?

The dentist will check your oral cavity as well as your neck and throat for any irregularities or signs of cancer. The whole procedure takes very little time and is absolutely ​‍​‌‍​‍‌​‍​‌‍​‍‌painless.