Many people do not know that regular dental checkups are the most important preventive dentistry procedures against oral cancer. The dentist’s objective is to prevent and diagnose any issue as early as possible, when treatment is easier. Preventive dentistry is all about keeping the oral cavity healthy for a long time. Oral cancer screening is typically done during dental checkups to uncover any developing signs.
Oral cancer can occur in any part of the oral cavity, including the lips, tonsils, cheeks, tongue, gums, and salivary glands. Ulcers or sores that do not heal, discomfort, lumps, bumps, swelling, or red or white patches are all possible oral cancer symptoms. Some people may also experience numbness, unexplained bleeding, voice changes, difficulty moving the jaw or tongue, and challenges with eating or swallowing.
There may be no symptoms in the early stages of oral cancer. That is why the dentist recommends regular dental examinations. The dental professional will analyze every area of the patient’s dental health during the appointments. When oral cancer is identified and treated early, there is a 90% chance of successful treatment.
During the screening, the dentist will search for symptoms of abnormal tissue. Typically, they will observe red and white pimples, hard lumps, rough patches, or changes in the placement of the teeth as obvious signs. A significant portion of the screening is done visually. While wearing gloves, the dentist will feel the patient’s cheeks and the insides of the mouth. This is done to see if there are any unusual or hard lumps inside this tissue.
Note that oral cancer can affect any part of the mouth. Therefore, a comprehensive examination is necessary. Additional testing tools may be used when patients visit the dental office, and the dentist will be happy to discuss the procedure. The exam will be painless, and patients will be at ease throughout it.
The dentist will do an oral cancer screening during a standard dental visit to rule out any anomalies. This quick and straightforward checkup can be life-saving. If the dentist finds anything worrisome, they may suggest a soft tissue biopsy, which entails extracting a sample of cells to submit to a lab for analysis. Early detection of malignant and precancerous alterations makes treatment easier and increases the chances of a full recovery.
Patients need to reduce smoking and drink alcohol in moderation. It is necessary to note the importance of keeping up with regular dental checkups to keep oral health in excellent form.
To learn more about preventive dentistry, contact the dental office to schedule a consultation appointment with the dentist. An oral cancer screening might potentially save your life, even if you have no symptoms. A highly skilled and knowledgeable dentist can provide tips to keep your smile healthy for years to come. Make an appointment for a dental exam and cleaning today.
Request an appointment here: https://austinprimarydental.com or call Austin Primary Dental at (512) 808-5651 for an appointment in our Austin office.
Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: Preventative Dental Care in Austin, TX.
Preventive dentistry is a branch of dentistry that focuses on keeping your mouth healthy in order to save you money. It starts with you taking good care of your mouth at home by brushing at least two times per day, flossing daily, and avoiding things that can damage teeth. Preventive dentistry also includes procedures performed…
A visit to our dental office is probably the single most effective way to prevent infections, cavities, and oral diseases. We have found that people who visit the dental office on a regular basis have significantly fewer problems with their teeth. When you come to our dental office at least once every six months, we…
For anyone who grinds his or her teeth at night, there are possible options for at-home treatment. Grinding teeth can wear down the tooth enamel and cause jaw pain. Since the teeth grinding occurs at night, it can be difficult for the individual to prevent it without extra assistance. We can determine your specific needs…
Investing in preventative dental care with regular checkups will help ensure healthy teeth.Preventative dental care occurs in our office and at home with proper dental hygiene. We can perform professional cleanings and examinations, while you keep your teeth healthy by brushing at home.Preventative Dental CareAt Austin Primary Dental in Austin, we work to customize your…
The safest sedation dentistry option depends on factors like the patient’s medical history, current medications…
Dental restorative procedures like implant supported dentures can be a solution to partial or complete…
Signs that a filling needs to be replaced include the following.
Gum disease is caused by the same type of bacteria that cause tooth decay. It…
A smile makeover is a cosmetic process that alters the aesthetic of the smile without…
The right cosmetic dentist can improve your smile and dental function at the same time.
