Significance of Regular Oral Cancer Screenings

Many people consider regular dental visits as just another adult responsibility. Clinics dealing in general dentistry in Rockport, TX couldn’t emphasize enough the importance of regular oral screenings and assessment. Keeping your dental health in check is significant to keep your overall physical health in good shape.

According to a report by Oral Cancer Foundation, every year approximately 50,000 Americans are diagnosed with oral cancer, leading to an average of around 9,750 deaths each year. However, even with these stats at hand, oral cancer is successfully treated only when diagnosed at its early stages. That is why routine oral cancer screenings are more important.

The initial sign of the development of cancer appears first in the mouth tissues. Since there is just a slight change, patients often fail to notice it. The changes may include just a small red or white spot or a tiny rough patch of skin. During routine dental screenings, your dentist conducts an oral cancer screening as well to check for the possible signs of any early-stage cancerous development so that it could be treated on time.

Most people fear oral cancer screenings as they perceive it as an invasive procedure. However, the truth is that the procedure does not require any invasive or extensive equipment.

The basics of oral cancer screenings involve palpation and thorough inspection of the soft mouth tissues. Your dentist will thoroughly inspect your mouth, face, and throat for any signs or abnormalities. Oral cancer screenings allow the dentist to thoroughly inspect your mouth for any unwanted development or sign which could not be possibly seen with a naked eye or self-assessment.

Your dentist will check under your tongue for any abnormal signs like lumps or swelling using a gauze. The soft and the hard palate of your mouth will be extensively examined for any rough areas, asymmetry, or ulcerated spots.

The oral cancer screening is a completely painless procedure and will just take a few minutes for the examination. Oral cancer screening is a part of general dentistry in Rockport and is usually included in your regular dental examination.

Oral cancers are among the most curable cancers, but if diagnosed at the right time. So, make sure your regular dental examinations also include a thorough assessment for any signs of oral cancer.

For more information about regular dental screenings, feel free to touch base with our team.