Developing any kind of cancer is certainly not a pleasant thought. There is no telling what will happen if it comes. The reality of it is that it could be an issue of life or death. One way to know when oral cancer might be on its way is to frequent a dentist’s office and get regular checkups.
The Dental Exam
Whenever a dentist performs a regular dental exam, they will always take a look at the inside of your mouth, gums, and tongue to see if there is any evidence of cancer. They know what to look for and it could enable it to be spotted in its early stages. Although cancer can only accurately be diagnosed with a biopsy, the exam can certainly make them aware that something unusual is taking place.
Most likely, when something abnormal is discovered, you will be asked to come back in a couple of weeks. The dentist may also refer you to another dentist who may be more experienced, or a specialist in identifying cancer.
The More Common Symptoms
The mouth is a place where things like sores and other irritations or bumps are often found. It is possibly more serious, though, when they do not disappear, or are obviously on their way to healing within a two week period.
Evidences of possible oral cancer include several things. This includes: discoloration, an obvious bump, an irritation, getting hoarse, and a sore that does not heal. Pain is not necessarily an obvious indication, since there often may not be any pain associated with it.
Those at the Greatest Risk
This type of cancer can happen to anyone. People with certain habits, however, are much more likely to get it. Smoking and drinking alcohol are the two greatest risk factors, but they are not the only ones. People using tobacco products in any form – including smokeless tobacco are also at risk. Those who have a diet low in fruit and vegetables are also at risk. Men are at twice the risk for it than women.
The Exam
When going for an oral exam at a dentist’s office, you can expect the dentist to first ask you some health questions about anything unusual. Once you answered that, then your neck and throat will be looked and felt to see if there are any unusual lumps. The inside of your cheeks will be looked at, the roof of your mouth, your throat, your tongue and under it, will also be checked.
Getting your mouth checked for cancer does not take long. You will be able to rest more confidently each time you go and find that nothing was discovered. This way you will not need to guess. Having your teeth taken care of is another element of ensuring good health, too.
The dentists at Amazing Smile Dental NY, in the Forest Hills area of Queens, NY, are glad to offer oral cancer exams along with a dental exam. We want to help you maintain good health along with a great smile. We offer a complete range of dental services for the entire family. Call us today at (718) 674-6478 to learn more and to make an appointment.