Dental health extends well beyond taking care of your teeth. Your mouth is a complicated system, after all, and keeping it healthy involves keeping your lips, gums, and the rest of your mouth in good shape. At Pacific Dental Care we know how important it is to stay on top of all aspects of your oral health, which is why today we’re telling you everything you need to know about oral cancer exams.
What Are Oral Cancer Exams?
Oral cancer exams are examinations performed by a dentist or doctor in order to identify cancerous or precancerous conditions in your mouth. The goal of this exam is to identify signs of oral cancer before the cancer itself develops — when the chance of curing it with no negative side effects is highest. A dentist will often perform these during routine checkups, but it’s also possible to schedule a specific appointment for oral cancer exams.
What Are The Benefits of Oral Cancer Exams?
Because oral cancer is easiest to treat and most likely to be cured in its early stages, a huge benefit of oral cancer is that it allows people to catch problems in their early stages. An oral cancer exam also serves another purpose, allowing dentists to identify and test any groups of abnormal cells in the mouth. This means that oral cancer exams can alert you to other problems with your oral health beyond cancer. Finally, the process is also incredibly convenient, over quickly, and there is no recovery time involved whatsoever.
Is An Oral Cancer Exam Right For Me?
There are very few specific symptoms that warrant an oral cancer exam, but a few telling signs should encourage you to get one. If you are at all worried about oral cancer, or if it runs in your family, an exam is always going to be the right choice. Oral cancer exams are also an especially good idea for you if you have increased risk factors for oral cancer, such as tobacco use, heavy alcohol use, previous oral cancer diagnoses, or heavy sun exposure.
In short, oral cancer exams are a quick, effective, and safe way to help prevent serious health problems. Even better, we’re happy to offer them at Pacific Dental Care! All you have to do is book a consultation with one of our dedicated professionals, and we’ll be able to perform an oral cancer exam and help you take control of your health.