Oral Cancer Screening
We at Complete Dental Care of Avon carry out cancer screening during every comprehensive and periodic exam. This allows us to detect oral cancer at an early stage. Early detection makes treatment easier and saves lives.
Our dentists and staff are trained to identify early signs of oral cancer and therefore intervene before it gets into an advanced stage
When should I get screened for Oral Cancer?
If you keep up with your regularly scheduled dental visits, you are getting an oral cancer screening as part of the routine. We are trained to detect early signs of oral cancer and will alert you if we notice something that warrants further testing.Who is at risk for Oral Cancer?
There are several predisposing factors that may put an individual at risk of developing oral cancer.
Some of them include –
Tobacco use– the most common cause of oral cancer and oropharyngeal cancer is the use of tobacco in any form, be it cigarettes, cigars, e-cigarettes, pouch, snuff, or dip. Tobacco exposes an individual to cancer-causing chemicals called carcinogens, which affect the oral mucosa and causes the cells to mutate and grow into cancer. Moreover, second-hand smoking is as precarious as primary smoking and therefore should be avoided.
Alcohol abuse– excessive consumption of alcohol is directly linked to oral cancer
Age factor– the risk of cancer increases with age
Human papillomavirus- this virus has a compelling relation with many forms of oral cancer
Excessive sun exposure- squamous cell carcinoma is primarily the result of excessive exposure to sun rays.
What are the signs and symptoms of Oral Cancer?
- Painless or painful swellings or lumps in your mouth, on your lips, or in head and neck areas.
- Difficulty in speaking, chewing or swallowing
- Difficulty in the movement of tongue or jaws
- A sore or an ulcer that has not healed in two weeks
- Unforeseen weight loss
- Red or white patches in your mouth, lateral border of the tongue, or mucosa.
When should I get screened for Oral Cancer?
If you keep up with your regularly scheduled dental visits, you are getting an oral cancer screening as part of the routine. We are trained to detect early signs of oral cancer and will alert you if we notice something that warrants further testing.
If you have any concerns about your risk of developing oral cancer or if you’ve noticed unexplained changes to your mouth and throat, don’t panic. Contact us today and schedule a dental check-up. Remember that regular preventive dental care can make all the difference when fighting disease!
10740 E US Hwy 36, Avon, IN 46123
317-271-3079
Office Hours
Monday 7:00 AM to 4:00 PM
Tuesday 7:00 AM to 4:00 PM
Wednesday 7:00 AM to 4:00 PM
Thursday 7:00 AM to 4:00 PM
Friday By Appointment