Oral cancer is a serious disease that can affect the mouth, tongue, lips, and throat. Many people do not know they have oral cancer until it has spread. This is why oral cancer screening near you is very important. Dentists check for signs of oral cancer during regular dental visits. When cancer is found early, it is easier to treat.
What is an Oral Cancer Screening?
An oral cancer screening is a simple exam done by a dentist. The dentist looks for unusual spots, sores, or lumps in the mouth. The exam does not hurt and takes only a few minutes.
During the screening, the dentist will:
- Check the lips, tongue, gums, and inside of the cheeks.
- Look for red or white patches in the mouth.
- Feel for lumps or swelling in the neck and jaw.
If anything looks unusual, the dentist in Naples may suggest more tests to make sure it is not cancer.
Who Should Get an Oral Cancer Screening?
Everyone should get an oral cancer screening during regular dental checkups. Some people have a higher risk of getting oral cancer. Those who are at higher risk include:
- People who smoke or use tobacco.
- People who drink alcohol often.
- People with human papillomavirus (HPV).
- People who spend a lot of time in the sun (which can cause lip cancer).
- People over the age of 40.
Even if you do not have these risk factors, oral cancer can still happen. That is why regular screenings are important for everyone.
Signs and Symptoms of Oral Cancer
Oral cancer may not cause pain in the early stages, so it is important to watch for signs, such as:
- A sore in the mouth that does not heal.
- A lump or thick area in the cheek.
- Red or white patches inside the mouth.
- Pain or difficulty when swallowing.
- A change in the voice or a sore throat that does not go away.
If you notice any of these symptoms for more than two weeks, visit your oral cancer dentist near you for a checkup.
Key Benefits of Oral Cancer Screenings
1. Early Detection
The most significant part of oral cancer screenings is early detection. This means that if cancer is found early, it is often easier to treat. When professionals can start treating the cancer right away, patients have a better chance of getting better.
2. Prevent Larger Problems
When you go for an oral cancer screening, your dentist checks for early signs of cancer. If your dentist finds something unusual, they can help address it before it becomes a bigger problem. It’s like fixing a small leak in a house—if you fix it early, it won’t cause a lot of damage.
3. Education
During an oral cancer screening, dentists also educate patients about how to keep their mouths healthy. They explain things like the importance of good dental hygiene, such as brushing and flossing every day. Understanding how to take care of your mouth can help prevent problems early.
4. Peace of Mind
Even if your screening does not find any signs of oral cancer, it can give you peace of mind. Knowing that your mouth is healthy can help you feel less worried. Regular checkups can keep you informed about your oral health.
5. Overall Health Protection
Your oral health is connected to your overall health. Oral cancer can spread to other parts of the body if not treated early. By getting regular oral cancer screening in Naples, you are also taking care of your whole body’s well-being.
How to Prevent Oral Cancer?
There are ways to lower your risk of getting oral cancer. Here are some tips:
- Do not smoke or use tobacco – Tobacco use is one of the biggest causes of oral cancer.
- Limit alcohol – Drinking too much alcohol increases the risk of cancer.
- Use sunscreen on your lips – This helps prevent lip cancer caused by the sun.
- Eat a healthy diet – Eating fruits and vegetables helps keep your mouth healthy.
- Get regular dental checkups – Your dentist near you can check for early signs of oral cancer.
Oral Cancer Screenings – Prevent Cancer Before It Starts!
At Naples Dental Arts Center, we care about your health and well-being. Our experienced dentist in Naples FL, provides oral cancer screenings to catch any early signs of cancer before they become serious. Regular checkups help protect your smile and overall health. We use modern tools to make the process quick and comfortable.
Don’t wait until it’s too late—schedule your oral cancer screening today! Call Naples Dental Arts Center to book your appointment and keep your mouth healthy.