Benefits of Early Cancer Detection Through Oral Cancer Screenings
Studies show a marked increase in oral cancer deaths over the last few years. It’s possible some of these deaths could have been prevented through early diagnosis. Oral cancer screening from High Forest Dental provides a means for detecting signs of oral cancer in its early stages. We perform an oral cancer screening during every one of your routine bi-annual exams. You can schedule an oral cancer screening at our Littleton, Colorado, dental clinic.
About Oral Cancer Screening
Oral cancer screenings are exams performed by dentists to detect abnormalities in your mouth that could indicate early signs of oral cancer. Many people are unaware that there are numerous types of oral cancers, all of which put your health at risk. These types include:
- Lip cancer (caused mainly by overexposure to UV rays)
- Mouth cancer
- Gum cancer
- Tongue cancer
- Jaw cancer
- Throat cancer
During an oral cancer screening, Dr. Brown will inspect your mouth, throat, and jaw for anomalies that may be caused by oral cancer. If we find abnormalities, we’ll refer you for a biopsy (tissue sample) to send to a lab for diagnosis. The sooner cancerous cells are detected, the sooner you can start treatment. Early treatment is key to overcoming this disease.
Benefits of Early Detection of Oral Cancer
Caught early enough, oral cancer can be treated and, in many instances, cured. Routine oral cancer screenings help achieve this goal. Early detection increases your chances of having successful oral cancer treatment. Undetected cancer cells will continue to grow, spreading throughout your mouth and other parts of your body. In its advanced stages, oral cancer is much harder to treat, reducing your chances of overcoming the condition.
Depending on the stage of the disease, oral cancer treatment may consist of surgery alone to remove the tumor or surgery combined with chemotherapy and radiotherapy to stop the spread of the disease. Through oral cancer screenings, you’re given a chance to catch this life-threatening disease early enough to benefit from treatment.
Where to Obtain Oral Cancer Screening
If you live in Littleton, CO, or nearby communities, we encourage you to contact Dr. Allison Brown from High Forest Dental at (303) 951-3717 to schedule an oral cancer screening.
