Oral Cancer Screening In Sterling VA

Oral Cancer Screening in Sterling, VA

The American Cancer Society reports that one in every 60 males and 40 females will develop oral cancer. You should be aware of the early signs of oral cancer so that you can treat it as soon as possible. That is why at PK Dental, we perform an oral cancer exam during your routine dental checkup. Your dentist will be able to catch abnormal tissue in your mouth that aligns with oral cancers.

An oral cancer screening can be life-saving, so do not put it off any longer. Instead, call our office today at 703-421-8988 to schedule yours as soon as possible.

What is Oral Cancer?

Oral cancer is a type of cancer that affects the oral cavity. It can occur on the lips, gums, tongue, roof, or floor of the mouth. According to the American Cancer Society, it accounts for 2.9% of all cancer diagnoses in the United States. In addition, men are twice as likely to develop oral cancer than women.

You may be wondering what exactly causes oral cancer. There are several major risk factors, such as using tobacco of any kind, heavy alcohol use, a weakened immune system, and sun exposure. Therefore, it is essential to take good care of yourself, avoid tobacco and sun exposure, and limit your alcohol intake. These things alone can decrease your risks significantly.

Early Signs of Oral Cancer

When it comes to treating oral cancer, early detection is vital. When caught in the early stages, it is highly treatable. Everyone should be aware of the symptoms of developing oral cancer and see a doctor if they experience any of them.

These are some early warning signs that will help you detect oral cancer:

• Lip or mouth ulcers that do not resolve
• Red or white patches in your mouth
• New lumps forming
• Pain when swallowing
• Loose teeth
• Jaw pain
• Numbness or tenderness in your mouth or lips

Contact us immediately if you notice abnormal sores or unusual lesions in your mouth. Detecting oral cancer early is a significant factor in treatment success.

Treatment Options for Oral Cancer

Oral cancer is a severe disease and can be life-threatening if not treated properly. Therefore, early diagnosis is critical in treating it. Several different treatment options are available to oral cancer patients, depending on the severity of cancer and other individual factors. The three primary treatment options for oral cancer are surgery, radiation or chemotherapy, and immunotherapy. Often, treatment will include a combination of these options or one by itself. Therefore, the course of treatment all depends on each patient’s case.

How to Prevent Oral Cancer

Oral cancer is something to be taken seriously, and it is essential to know how to prevent it. Fortunately, you can do a few things to reduce your risk of developing the disease, and they are pretty easy to incorporate.

Maintain Good Dental and Overall Health

Eating a well-balanced diet and avoiding sugary foods and drinks are essential to preventing oral cancer. In addition, good overall health can support your immune system and help fight cancer from forming. You should also limit your alcohol consumption because excessive use can irritate the cells in your mouth, leaving them vulnerable to oral cancer.

Visit the Dentist Regularly

Making the time to visit your dentist for regular checkups can help you catch abnormalities as soon as they start. This is your best shot at catching oral cancer before it becomes too severe. Your dentist will also help you maintain optimal dental health so that other serious issues do not develop. At PK Family Dentistry, our dentists can diagnose oral cancer and ensure you get the proper treatment as soon as possible.

Avoid All Tobacco Products

Tobacco products contain toxins and carcinogens that are linked to cancer. Cigarette smoking and the use of chewing tobacco increase your risk of developing oral cancer and other types of cancer. 

Limit Sun Exposure

Limiting your sun exposure helps prevent oral cancer and skin cancer. The sun’s harmful UVB and UVA rays can penetrate the skin causing damage that can lead to different types of skin cancer. If you are spending time outside, be sure to apply sunscreen on all exposed skin areas (including your lips) to prevent sunburn. In addition, wear a wide brim hat to protect your face and stay in the shade when possible.

Schedule Your Oral Screening For Mouth Cancer in Sterling, VA Today | General Dentistry

Oral cancer is something to take seriously. Schedule regular dental checkups with oral cancer screenings. If you notice unusual sores or pain in your oral cavity, reach out as soon as possible. Early detection is crucial in treating oral cancer.

Schedule your oral cancer screening today by giving us a call at 703-421-8988.