Oral cancer screenings are an important part of every dental checkup offered by your dentist in Salem, OR, Dr. Igor Sitnik. Oral cancer may not be as widely known as some cancers, but it is expected to affect more than 50,000 people in the U.S. this year, according to the American Society of Clinical Oncology. Fortunately, you can protect your health by making bi-yearly dental checkups a priority.
Why you need an oral cancer screening
Oral cancer signs tend to be subtle at first. A sore that never heals or a flaky patch of white or red skin in your mouth may actually be caused by cancer. Lumps and bumps are also common if you have oral cancer. Unfortunately, it may not always be possible to feel these growths yourself, depending on their location.
As with all cancers, prompt treatment is the key to preserving your health. The earlier you’re diagnosed, the more promising the outcome. Visiting the Salem dental office every six months for checkups improves the odds that oral cancer will be diagnosed in its earliest stages when its most treatable.
Oral cancer screenings can also identify pre-cancerous lesions. Removing these spots right away prevents them from ever becoming cancerous.
What happens during an oral cancer screening?
During an oral cancer screening, your dentist will check the inside of your mouth for any suspicious spots, growths or sores. He’ll also examine your lips, throat and neck. The screening may include a discussion about any unusual symptoms you may be experiencing. Oral cancer can also cause difficulty eating, a change in the fit of dentures, pain, loose teeth, voice changes or frequent sore throats.
If your dentist notices any growths or spots, he'll remove some cells and send them to a laboratory for analysis. Should the tests reveal that you have oral cancer, your dentist will discuss treatment options and next steps with you.
Have you had an oral cancer screening and dental checkup lately? Protect your oral and general health by paying a visit to your Salem, OR, dentist, Dr. Igor Sitnik. Call his office at (503) 363-5962 to schedule your appointment.