The Importance of Oral Cancer Screenings
The oral cancer affects thousands of people in the US and it’s also the reason for one death every hour. It is one of the most commonly undiagnosed and misdiagnosed forms of cancer. Sadly, the disease is often not detected until it reaches the last stages where the treatment is less likely to be effective. April is the oral cancer awareness month and one of the best ways to celebrate it is by taking some time to understand the warning signs and risk factors for oral cancer and receive a screening from a skilled professional, says dentist in 85018.
What Happens During Oral Cancer Screening?
The oral cancer screenings are comfortable and fast. The Phoenix dentist begins by asking some questions for helping assess the non-visual cues associated with oral cancer. Then, they review your facial structure for the warning signs of oral cancer.
How Will I Know I Have Oral Cancer?
The only way to find out about oral cancer is to get diagnosis from a professional. But you need to need your dentist or physicians know right away if you notice any warning signs that may signify cancer:
- Changes in color or texture of soft tissue
- Sores that don’t heal
- Lumps or hard spots in soft tissue
- Swollen or hardened lymph nodes
- Difficulty swallowing
- Chronic sore throat or hoarse voice
Who Needs Oral Cancer Screenings?
Everyone needs oral cancer screening. Though people consuming tobacco are at higher risk of developing cancer, 25% and more diagnosed with oral cancer every year do not engage in any of the high risk behaviors associated with oral cancer. This includes adults as well as children. The dentist near Phoenix, AZ says that they are happy to offer safe and comfortable oral cancer screenings to patients for reducing the oral cancer related deaths.
The Phoenix dentist near you would be more than happy to offer your oral cancer screenings as a part of every six month dental exam. As dental professionals are familiar with the function of oral structures, they are ideal professionals for offering patients with oral cancer screening.