When was the last time you received an oral cancer screening? Each year in the United States, over 43,000 people are diagnosed with oral cancer. Without early diagnosis and subsequent treatment, nearly half of that number will succumb to the disease within five years. To protect your overall health, you should always undergo routine oral cancer screenings.
Oral Cancer Screening Quiz
1. True or False: You should have an oral cancer screening at least twice a year.
2. True or False: Unexplained sores and lesions may be warning signs of oral cancer.
3. True or False: Smoking and drinking can increase the risk of oral cancer.
4. True or False: Dr. Villani and Dr. Kondrat offer oral cancer screenings.
Answer Key
1. True. Adult patients can receive an oral cancer screening during a regular checkup. According to the American Dental Association, you should have a checkup twice a year, about once every six months. This allows our dentists to watch for the warning signs of serious dental health issues, including gum disease, tooth decay, and oral cancer.
2. True. If you experience unexplained bleeding, sores that don’t heal, or notice hard places or patches with red and white splotches in the mouth, these may be indicators of oral cancer. You may also experience dramatic weight loss, hoarseness, or difficulty eating or swallowing. If you notice one or more of these symptoms, please see Dr. Villani and Dr. Kondrat right away.
3. True. If you use tobacco or drink heavily, this can boost your odds of developing oral cancer. However, even if you don’t drink or smoke, you should still undergo regular screenings. After all, over 25% of those diagnosed with oral cancer don’t drink heavily or smoke.
4. True. When you schedule a checkup, we can provide thorough and precise oral cancer screenings. Call our office today for more information.
About Brighton Family Dental Group:
Brighton Family Dental Group is located in Brighton MA. Featuring experienced dentists and an excellent range of in-office treatments, Brighton Family Dental Group is a great destination for any member of your family who is in need of dental care. Patients can schedule an appointment or a consultation with Dr. Thomas Villani by calling (617) 562-5210.
