Oral Screenings and Why You Should Care

Oral cancer may not sound familiar at first, and that's because it’s hardly ever talked about. Sadly, out of 40,000 diagnoses, more than 9,000 people die each year from oral cancer. How can you check to see if you have oral cancer? A simple oral screening can put your mind at rest. Keep reading to learn why scheduling an oral screening could be vital to your overall well-being. 

Why Is It Important to Get an Oral Screening?

1. Oral Cancer Can Be Hard to Spot

It's normal to want to hop onto the internet and try to self-diagnose, but with oral cancer, it's not that easy. If you suspect you may have symptoms, seek professional help from your dentist. Symptoms include sores, lumps, or red or white patches that just don't go away, as well as trouble chewing, swallowing, or moving your jaw. You may also have trouble with loose teeth or ear pain. If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, let your dentist know right away so they can run a proper screening.



2. You May Be at Risk

It's easy to assume oral cancer is something that happens to other people, not you. For example, more men than women are diagnosed with oral cancer. It has been proven that drinking, smoking, or having human papillomavirus (HPV) are also known to increase the risk of getting oral cancer. However, thousands of men and women who are not in these groups are still diagnosed each year, so while certain things can increase your risk of getting this type of cancer, it’s always best to schedule regular oral screening appointments just to be safe.

Stay Safe and Check Your Symptoms

The good news is that you can do a lot to nip this cancer in the bud. The earlier you catch it, the better chance you have of recovery. Every year, make sure you're heading to your dentist to screen for oral cancer. The quicker you can spot it, the quicker you can receive proper treatment.

Screenings Are Quick

Guess what? Screenings are fast and easy, sometimes taking just five minutes. You can incorporate it into your regular checkup during or before your dental work. There's no need to put it off, and there's no need to worry about how to fit one in. Make it a part of your dental routine, and you can relax knowing that you are doing everything you need to take the best care of your oral health.

It’s good to remember that prevention is always better than cure, and when it comes to your health, you can never be too careful. Stay on top of your screenings and call Patriot Family Dental at 931.645.2469 to schedule one today.