Importance of Oral Cancer Screening

One of the most deadly types of cancer that a person can be diagnosed with relates to areas within the mouth and throat. Unless found in the early stages, the survival rate following a diagnosis is unfortunately low the more the cancer has progressed. Screening is important for all ages because obvious symptoms do not usually become evident until it is too late. Patients may think that they have an ordinary sore throat or patch inside the mouth until weeks go by without signs of healing.

Our dentist in Encino always recommends an oral cancer screening during regular cleaning visits for a chance to detect any signs of abnormality. Anyone that is at a higher risk, such as a smoker, may need to have more frequent screenings so that there is a lower chance of fatality. The dentist will examine any pain, lumps, discoloration, and other abnormalities that could be a sign of oral cancer. All people are urged to decrease their cancer risk by having an examination at least once a year, avoiding alcohol and tobacco use, and eating a healthy diet whenever possible. If you have not received a recent cancer screening, schedule an examination with our dentist to get a clearer picture of your oral health.