Oral cancer may occur in any mouth area, such as the tongue, lips, cheeks, and gums. Early stages often do not cause pain or obvious symptoms, so screenings are needed to detect them. An ordinary check-up can detect abnormal tissues before they develop into serious cases. Most people might not consider being screened unless they see an issue, but prevention and early detection are what make effective treatment possible.
How Often Should You Be Screened?
The ideal frequency of screenings will vary based on an individual’s age, health background, and lifestyle. For most adults, yearly screening at the time of a dental examination is the best. Individuals who have a higher risk should have more recurring screenings. A dental office in Toledo can evaluate individual risk factors and advise a frequency of screening based on the individual’s health requirements.
Who Is at Higher Risk?
Some factors put individuals at a higher risk for oral cancer. If any of these are present, more recurring testing may be needed:
- Tobacco Use – Chewing or smoking tobacco increases the risk of oral cancer very significantly.
- Heavy Alcohol Consumption – Heavy alcohol use compromises the immune system and is harmful to the tissues of the mouth.
- HPV Infection – The human papillomavirus (HPV) has been associated with some oral cancers.
- Long Sun Exposure – Excessive exposure to the sun raises the risk of lip cancer.
- Family History – People with close relatives who have had cancer may have a greater likelihood of developing it.
These risk factors can be discussed with a dentist to determine how often screenings should be scheduled.
Signs That May Indicate a Problem
Cancer is not necessarily painful in its initial stages, yet professional screenings are recommended. Certain signs include:
- Sore spots inside the mouth that don’t go away
- Red and white patches on the inside of the mouth
- Numbness or bleeding that is not explained
- Trouble chewing, swallowing, or speaking
- Lumps or thick spots on the inside of the mouth or neck
If any of these symptoms continue for more than two weeks, it is advisable to visit a medical facility as soon as possible. Oral cancer screening in Toledo performed regularly can identify these signs before they become more severe.
The Role of Self-Examinations
Along with professional screenings, examination at home can be beneficial in the detection of uncommon changes at an early stage. Once a month, one can do a self-exam by checking inside the mouth for lumps, sores, or discoloration. This may not substitute for professional exams, but it will get individuals into a doctor sooner if something looks off.
What to Expect During an Oral Cancer Screening
Screening is painless and takes just a moment. As part of a regular dental checkup, a dentist will look at the inside of the mouth, tongue, and throat. He or she will also check the jaw and neck for any strange lumps. If something appears suspicious, further tests might be ordered.
Regular visits to the dentist ensure consistent screenings. A reliable dental office in Toledo can offer comprehensive checks and instruct patients on good oral health.
Ways to Minimize the Risk of Oral Cancer
Though certain risk factors such as genetics cannot be altered, methods of minimizing the risk of oral cancer include:
- Do not use tobacco products
- Don’t drink alcohol to excess.
- Apply sunscreen or lip balm with SPF to shield lips from sun exposure.
- Consume a balanced diet with fruits and vegetables.
- See a dentist often for check-ups and screenings.
All of these measures can promote overall oral health and avoid the onset of serious conditions.
Regular Screenings Can Save Lives
Many cases of oral cancer can be successfully treated if detected early. Since symptoms are often unnoticed in the beginning, regular oral cancer screening in Toledo is an important part of preventive healthcare. A simple screening can make a significant difference in identifying concerns before they progress.
Take Charge of Your Oral Health
Scheduling a screening at a dental office in Toledo is a proactive step toward maintaining good oral health. At Classic Smiles Dental, we include comprehensive oral cancer screenings in our preventative care policy. If it has been a while since your last screening, or if you are worried about oral health, the time is now to do something about it. Call us today to book an appointment and keep your smile healthy for years to come.
