How Frequently Should You Get Oral Cancer Screenings?

Oral Cancer Screening Stevensville, MT

During a dental visit, it would be a good idea to get an oral cancer screening to see if you are at risk of developing oral cancer. According to the National Institutes of Health (NIH), about 49,700 people in the United States are diagnosed with oral cancer every year. Getting screened for this disease will help catch early signs before they become more advanced. Early detection can improve a person’s chances of successful treatment.

Get screened at least once a year

Dentists generally recommend that everyone should have regular oral cancer screenings. Adults older than 20 are encouraged to get screened every three years. Since oral cancer rates increase with age, those over 40 need to have an oral cancer screening at least once a year. The frequency may vary, depending on certain risk factors.

Who is at an increased risk?

Besides age, a person may have to get oral cancer screenings more often if they smoke or drink alcohol. Gender is also a risk factor. The NIH confirms that the oral cancer rate is significantly higher for men than women, possibly due to men being more likely to use tobacco and alcohol in the past. Other risk factors include human papillomavirus infection, prolonged sun exposure, and poor oral hygiene. Family history, excess body weight, and an unhealthy diet can also raise a person’s risk of developing the condition.

What to expect in an oral cancer screening?

There are two primary components in an oral cancer screening: visual exam and physical exam. During a visual exam, the dentist will check the patient’s face, cheeks, lips, jaw, neck, and inside of the nose and mouth. The goal is to look for abnormalities, such as bumps, swellings, color patches, ulcerations, and asymmetries. The dentist will use a light and mirror to look inside the mouth. To take a peek at the back of the mouth, a tongue depressor will be used to hold down the tongue.

On the other hand, a physical exam involves touching the face, neck, and mouth to feel any unusual growths or masses. This tactile inspection allows dentists to find nodules and hard lumps of tissues. Symptoms of oral cancer can be painful sometimes. But it is often painless, especially in its early stages. This is even more of a reason to get oral cancer screening regularly.

Oral cancer is preventable

The NIH states that oral cancer is a largely preventable type of cancer. So, it is a good idea to quit smoking and limit alcohol intake. Stay out of the sun, especially when the harmful ultraviolet rays from the sun are at their strongest. Equally important is to eat a healthy, balanced diet. Since the disease is treatable once caught early, patients should have an oral cancer screening during a regular dental checkup. Try examining your mouth in the mirror once a month. If you spot something unusual, do not hesitate to call the dentist.

Are you considering getting oral cancer screening in the Stevensville area? Get more information at https://bitterrootvalleydentalcare.com.

Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: Oral Cancer Screening in Stevensville, MT.

Recent Posts

A General Dentist Shares Some Signs Of Oral Cancer

Wondering what the signs of oral cancer are? General dentists are specifically trained in performing oral cancer screenings and thus know exactly what to look for. Dental patients can also check for signs in between screenings.Learning how general dentists perform oral cancer screenings will help dental patients know what to expect when undergoing this important…

Gingivitis: What You Need To Know About This Type Of Gum Disease

Avoiding gum disease at all costs is essential, as once someone is diagnosed with this dental-related disease, it means that they are in need of additional dental treatment to restore their good oral health. Even though gingivitis is the mildest form of gum disease, it can still cause harm to one’s overall good oral health.Thinking…

Pros And Cons Of Laser Dentistry

Thinking about choosing laser dentistry? The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved laser dentistry as a treatment option for several dental conditions. Common conditions include treating gum disease, root canal infections and removing canker sores.Understanding what laser dentistry can treat is the first thing someone needs to do when considering this dental treatment option.…

Laser Dentistry And Root Canal Procedures

Laser dentistry is a dental practice that can be used to treat both restorative and cosmetic conditions. One of the most common procedures that laser dentistry is capable of taking over is root canals. For the longest time, root canals have been done one way. However, modern-day dentistry has allowed for the evolution of better…

Recent Posts

How A General Dentist Can Help Prevent Cavities

How A General Dentist Can Help Prevent Cavities

Learning how to prevent cavities from a general dentist is smart. General dentists understand everything there is to know about how to take care of your mouth and are a great source of dental information. Whether you think you already have a cavity or want to make a preventive appointment to avoid getting a cavity…

Smile Makeover Options:   Treatments To Achieve A Better Smile

Smile Makeover Options: 6 Treatments To Achieve A Better Smile

A smile makeover is not as difficult to achieve as some people might think. Even simple treatments can improve the appearance of a smile. With the widely available cosmetic dentistry technology today, a beautiful smile may be just around the corner. The first step in any smile makeover is to follow proper oral hygiene at home.…