Have you seen our team for a checkup this year? Each year, we would like to see you twice for a checkup, and during one of these visits, we want to screen your smile for oral cancer. In today’s blog, your Brighton, MA, dentists would like to discuss the importance of undergoing screening, and also the potential warning signs you should be aware of!
You Need a Screening
Studies from the Oral Cancer Foundation show that at least 53,000 people will be diagnosed with the disease this year alone. But of that number, half will have succumbed to the disease within just five years. The high mortality rate is because oral cancer is rarely discovered in the early stages, and by the time you realize something is worn and are diagnosed, the disease has reached the later stages. Which is why a screening is so important. Once a year, we have a chance to identify the presence of it in the later stages, so you can be referred to a specialist for a biopsy and to seek treatment. The sooner the issue is treated, the more likely a full recovery becomes.
Warning Signs to Watch For
You should also be aware of potential warning signs, that way if they arise you can let us know and we can perform a screening to identify any precancerous or cancerous areas. You should let us know if you have any sores, lesions, or rough patches that don’t heal after two weeks. A sore throat, hoarseness, or changes to your voice that persists is cause for concern too, as is sudden weight loss or areas in the mouth with red and white splotches. When you experience one or more of these possible signs of trouble, give us a call and we will schedule a time to see you quickly. The screening process only takes a few moments, and could be a major factor in your continued health!
Other Benefits of an Exam
A dental checkup is also a chance for our team to look at your teeth, roots, gums, jaw, and oral structures with digital x-rays and intraoral cameras. We can identify cavities, infections, gingivitis and gum disease, and even TMJ disorder and bruxism, offering care to restore the health, beauty, and function of your smile. If you have any questions about how we improve the health of your smile, or if you want to schedule a checkup, give us a call.
Do You Have Questions About Our Screening Process?
Our team would like to help you maintain good oral health with a regular checkup. To learn more about the examination process, then schedule a consultation by calling Brighton Family Dental Group in Brighton, MA, today at (617) 562-5210. We proudly welcome patients from Brighton, Watertown, and all surrounding communities.
