Oral Cancer Screening – Bedford
Early Detection for Effective Treatment
Your regular dental visits are about much more than just preventing cavities and gum disease. Nearly 54,000 Americans are diagnosed with oral oropharyngeal cancer each year. The good news is that when caught early on, patients are often able to make a full recovery. However, when action isn’t taken right away, this disease can quickly turn deadly. If it has been a while since your last visit, give us a call to schedule your oral cancer screening in Bedford.
Why Choose Omega Dental of Bedford for Oral Cancer Screenings?
- Quick, Painless Screening
- We Welcome Dental Insurance
- Detect Cancer Early
Signs & Symptoms of Oral Cancer
In addition to professional cleanings twice per year, it is worthwhile to be aware of the signs and symptoms of oral cancer. This way, if you notice something that doesn’t feel right, you can bring it up with your dentist. Here are some signs to be on the lookout for.
- Persistent sore throat
- Vocal changes
- Difficulty chewing and swallowing
- New lump or bump
- Sensation that something is stuck in the throat
- Sores or lesions that don’t heal within 10 days
What Do Dentists Look for During Oral Cancer Screenings?
During your oral cancer screening, we will be on the lookout for asymmetrical bumps, swollen areas, red or white patches, ulceration, or tissue that is thicker than normal. We will also review your medical history and identify any of the following risk factors of oral cancer.
- HPV Infection: Up to 30% of oral cancer cases are attributed to human papillomavirus (HPV).
- Tobacco: Nearly 80% of patients diagnosed with oral cancer either smoke or chew tobacco.
- Alcohol: Patient who frequently drink alcohol are more likely to develop oral cancer.
- Sun Exposure: Oral cancer concentrated on the lip area is often suffered by those with outdoor jobs, and therefore prolonged sunlight exposure.
- Diet: Poor diets lacking fruits and vegetables have been associated with an increased risk of oral cancer.
- Gender: Men are twice as likely as women to develop oral cancer.
- Age: The possibility of developing oral cancer increases with age.
How Will Your Own Screening Work?
Oral cancer screenings are quick, painless, and easy. You have probably had many of them completed without you even knowing. During your routine cleaning and checkups, we will thoroughly examine your oral cavity. We will take several minutes to look at your lips, the back of your throat, and your tongue. We will also check your cheeks and jaw for abnormalities. If we find anything of concern, we will either diagnose it and take further action or refer you to a specialist for closer inspection.