Ramp Up Your Preventive Care with Oral Cancer Screenings
Certain factors, including family history and lifestyle choices such as smoking and excessive alcohol consumption, can increase the risk of oral cancer. Unfortunately, avoiding these behaviors does not guarantee you are safe from the disease. That’s why routine oral cancer screenings in Sacramento, California, are so important.
At Sac Dentist, this quick and painless exam is performed during your regular check-up to detect oral cancer at its earliest and most treatable stage. If it has been over 12 months since your last screening, schedule an appointment with Dr. Steven Phan and his team today.
What are the symptoms of oral cancer?
Oral cancer can develop in nearly any part of the mouth, but it most commonly appears on the tongue, lips, cheeks, gums, palate, and throat. Like many cancers, it often presents noticeable symptoms only in its later stages. While the following signs don’t always indicate oral cancer, you must notify your dentist if you experience any of them:
- Unexplained mouth bleeding, numbness, or pain
- Persistent mouth sores that don’t heal within two weeks
- Voice changes
- Difficulty or painful swallowing
- Red or white patches in your mouth
- Changes in how your dentures or aligners fit
- Unusual swellings or bumps
- Loose teeth
These symptoms often mimic less severe conditions, leading many to overlook them. That’s why routine oral cancer screenings are so important. During oral wellness visits, your dentist can detect subtle changes in the mouth, throat, and surrounding tissues that may indicate something more serious.
What can I expect during an oral cancer exam?
Oral cancer screenings at Sac Dentist are quick, painless, and non-invasive. Here’s what you can expect during your visit.
- Visual examination: Dr. Phan will examine your gums, cheeks, tongue, throat, and other areas for any visible signs of lesions, patches, or abnormal bumps.
- Physical examination: Dr. Phan gently palpates your neck, gums, and lymph nodes with gloved hands to detect unusual bumps or swellings.
- Other tests: If he notices any unusual signs, he’ll schedule a follow-up visit to monitor any changes in the area. If needed, he may use special lights or dyes to help identify abnormal tissue more clearly.
- Biopsy: Remember, a dentist doesn’t diagnose you with oral cancer—we detect suspicious signs. So, if we spot a worrying lump or lesion, we’ll refer you to a specialist for a biopsy. This test involves taking a small sample of your tissue and analyzing it in a lab.
Diagnosed with oral cancer? An oral cancer diagnosis is tough, but there is hope. With early intervention, advanced treatments, and a strong support system, many patients go on to live full, healthy lives.
Why is oral cancer screening important?
We recommend oral cancer screenings as part of your dental check-up. Here are the reasons why oral cancer exams are essential.
- Early detection: Routine screenings allow the dentist to catch potential issues before they become serious. Early detection significantly improves the chances of successful treatment and long-term recovery.
- Gentle treatment: Treating oral cancer at its early stages involves less costly and aggressive treatments.
- Peace of mind: Oral cancer screenings ensure your mouth is healthy, providing peace of mind for you and your loved ones.
Oral cancer screening near me in Sacramento, California
Oral cancer often goes unnoticed until it’s advanced, but a quick, painless screening could make all the difference. Don’t wait for symptoms to appear. Call (916) 999-7830 and schedule your oral cancer screening today with Sac Dentist. Let’s protect your health with this small step.
