The last thing anyone wants to hear is the dreaded words, “You have cancer.” Oral cancers are some of the hardest to detect due to the fact that the average person has difficulty identifying early warning symptoms. For many people, they aren’t looking at the inside of their mouths on a regular basis to check for indications that they have a problem. Take the time to get regular screenings and checkups from a trusted dental practice — like Bloom Dental of Arlington — to give you a thorough examination.
When it comes to the types of cancer, oral varieties that aren’t detected early can have severe implications on a person's overall health and quality of life. It affects various parts of the oral cavity, including the lips, gums, tongue, cheeks, and the floor of the mouth. This highlights the importance of oral cancer screenings in Arlington, VA, as an integral part of your regular health checkups.
The Most Common Oral Cancer Warning Signs
Early oral cancer detection significantly increases the chance of successful treatment. Some warning signs include unexplained bleeding, white patches or red patches in the mouth, difficulty swallowing, speaking, and persistent ear pain.
Your First Line of Defense Are Regular Dental Exams
Regular dental exams play a crucial role in early detection. Dentists are often the first healthcare professionals to notice signs of oral cancer. They will examine your oral cavity for abnormalities during a routine checkup. If they see any white spots on your lips, tongue, or the inside of your cheeks, they can diagnose your condition during the earlier stages.
Risk Factors for Oral Cancer: Who Are High-Risk Patients?
Certain lifestyle choices and conditions can increase the likelihood of developing oral cancer. Tobacco use, excessive alcohol consumption, prolonged sun exposure (which can cause lip cancer), and a family history of cancer are all significant factors for oral cancer.
The Oral Cancer Screening Process
During an oral cancer screening at Bloom Dental, our dentists will thoroughly examine your mouth. They'll look for any sores, discolored tissue, or abnormal lumps. They may also palpate the neck and jaw area for unusual lumps.
Early Detection: The Key to Successful Treatment
Early detection is the key to successful oral cancer treatment. If detected early, oral cancer has a high cure rate. However, if left undiagnosed, it can become life-threatening or lead to severe complications affecting speech, eating, and other daily activities.
The Role of Dental Professionals in Oral Cancer Detection
Dental professionals are your partners in maintaining good oral health. They are concerned with keeping your teeth and gums healthy and ensuring that your whole oral cavity is free from any signs of disease, including oral cancer.
Prioritize Your Oral Health With Bloom Dental of Arlington
Oral cancer is a serious disease that can significantly affect a person's life. However, with regular screenings and early detection, it is treatable. Remember, your mouth is the window to your overall health, and maintaining good oral hygiene and regular dental visits can save your life. Whether you're a high-risk patient or not, everyone should prioritize getting regular oral cancer screenings. At Bloom Dental of Arlington, we're committed to providing comprehensive surgical and periodontic dental care in Arlington, VA, including oral cancer screenings, to help our community stay healthy and thrive.