When was the last time you were screened for oral cancer? As part of our approach to oral pathology, we can provide screenings, biopsies, and even discuss treatments. In today’s blog, your team at Balboa Dental Surgery in Newport Beach, CA, talks about oral cancer screenings and more!
The Need for a Routine Screening
When do you need to have an oral cancer screening? We recommend one at least once a year for adults of all ages, even those without underlying risk factors. According to studies, of the estimated 53,000 people diagnosed this year alone, half will succumb to the disease within just five years. The main reason for the high mortality rate is the fact that few people have screenings that catch the issue early. If caught in the early stages, this is often very treatable, and your chances of a full recovery are much higher!
With a screening, we will use advanced digital imaging to look closely at the soft tissues in the interior of your mouth for possible cancerous or precancerous areas. We can then order a biopsy and you can start your treatment journey. Outside of your routine screenings, consider seeing us if you encounter possible symptoms, such as persistent hoarseness, changes to your voice, sores or lesions that do not heal after two weeks, or areas with red and white splotches in your mouth’s interior. Sore throat that lasts more than a week is also a concern, as is an unexplained weight loss or rough patches in the interior of your mouth. Don’t ignore these possible symptoms, please see us right for oral pathology, so we can conduct an exam.
Oral Biopsies
With an oral biopsy, our team will take a small sample of the possible cancerous or precancerous area, and then send this sample to a lab where an expert pathologist will take a look. They will find out if there is any disease present. If the results are negative, then we will still monitor the area with follow-up visits. For a positive result, we will work closely with you to discuss possible treatment actions. Your treatment will be personalized for your smile.
Easing Your Overall Risk
You can take steps to help lower your risk of developing an oral cancer, such as avoiding any and all tobacco products. We also urge people to avoid excessive alcohol consumption, and to wear protection from UV light if you are being outside in the sun for prolonged periods. If you have any questions about how we screen for oral cancer, then contact our team today.
Talk To Balboa Dental Surgery About Screening for Oral Cancer
We offer oral pathology with precision and accuracy using advanced technology and more. To learn more about oral pathology, or to schedule your appointment, contact your Newport Beach, CA oral surgeon at (949) 630-0143!
Recent Comments