Oral cancer can be detected early, and early detection could mean saving your life. When caught at an early stage, oral cancer can often be treated, but when detected at an advanced stage, the survival rates are abysmal. With regular checkups to your dentist, the chances are greater that early signs of oral cancer can be spotted. Oral cancer screening technology may be used to detect abnormalities that may not be seen by the human eye, which means oral cancer can be caught at an even earlier stage. If you notice any changes in your mouth, it is always a good idea to talk to your dentist. You see your mouth every day, and you have the best knowledge as to what is normal or not. Noticing signs of oral cancer early can allow more time for life-saving treatment.
Signs and Abnormalities
During an oral cancer screening, your dentist will look for asymmetries, swellings, bumps, patches of color, ulcerations, or other abnormalities inside the mouth, on the face, neck, lips, and even inside of the nose. Your dentist will also feel for any bumps or swelling around the jaw, under the chin, on the cheeks, and in the oral cavity. During a comprehensive screening, OralID™ early-detection system technology may be used. The advanced OralID™ system uses fluorescent technology to spotlight tissue abnormalities that may be just below the surface.
Oral Cancer Risk Factors
Regular oral cancer screenings are recommended for everyone, however, if you have a high-risk of developing oral cancer, it is best to receive more frequent screenings. Men are twice as likely as women to get oral cancer as they get older. Lifestyle factors including tobacco use, heavy alcohol use, and an unhealthy diet all increase your risk. Certain strains of HPV increase your risk of oral cancer. If you have had oral cancer at some point in your life, frequent screenings are recommended.
Early detection of oral cancer can save your life
Dr. Carmona has invested in OralID™ early-detection system technology. To schedule a consultation with Austin Prosthodontics in Austin, TX, call 512-250-9444. We also proudly welcome patients from Cedar Park, Round Rock, Pflugerville, Leander, and all surrounding Texas communities.
