Oral Cancer Screenings Save Lives

Dentists regularly check patients for oral cancer as part of the twice-a-year exam. An oral cancer screening can be the earliest diagnosis of the disease since people don’t go to their primary care doctor as often. Early detection offers the best chance for survival.

Ways to Screen for Oral Cancer

Dental bonding can do many things to improve the look of your teeth but can also provide more strength to teeth with cracks or chips. They can also hide tooth discoloration and be used to close gaps between teeth.

They may include palpation, checking for lumps, or the use of dyes and lights for those at high risk or if they suspect seeing a symptom of oral cancer.

Dentists may also photograph abnormal spots to better monitor them.

Abnormal Results Are Shared With You

A dentist won’t say anything about checking for oral cancer if they see nothing amiss. They will share information if they see something abnormal or need to do more detailed screenings. Dentists will refer you to a medical doctor if there is suspicion of oral cancer.

What Happens Next

Those the dentist feels need more tests my get a cytology or a biopsy done by a medical doctor. Cytology is when a doctor collects mouth cells with a brush, stick, or cotton swab to see if they are cancerous. A biopsy is where a doctor removes some of the abnormal tissues and sends it for analysis.

Schedule a Dental Exam

The best way to stay updated on oral cancer screenings is to see a dentist twice a year for an exam and teeth cleaning. We would love to help you stay healthy so book an appointment now!

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