At Riverwood Dental, we are committed to not only taking care of your teeth but also safeguarding your overall health. Oral cancer is a serious condition that can affect various areas of the mouth, including the tongue, lips, gums, and throat. The best way to protect yourself from the dangers of oral cancer is through early detection, which is why we include oral cancer screenings as part of your regular dental visits. Located in Atlanta and serving patients from Smyrna and Vinings, our practice prioritizes preventive care and early detection for optimal health outcomes.
The Importance of Early Detection
Oral cancer can develop without obvious symptoms, making regular screenings critical for identifying the condition in its early stages. Detecting oral cancer early can significantly increase the chances of successful treatment and recovery. According to the American Cancer Society, approximately 54,000 people in the United States are diagnosed with oral cancer each year. Many of these cases can be treated more effectively if caught early.
Why Early Detection Matters:
- Better Treatment Outcomes: Early detection leads to less invasive treatments and higher success rates.
- Prevention of Spread: Oral cancer can spread to other areas of the body if not caught in time. Early intervention helps stop the spread.
- Protect Your Overall Health: Regular oral cancer screenings, as part of your dental visit, help keep your entire body healthy by identifying potential issues before they worsen.
What to Expect During an Oral Cancer Screening
At Riverwood Dental, we make oral cancer screenings a seamless and painless part of your routine dental visit. During your exam, we’ll carefully check your mouth, gums, lips, and throat for any signs of abnormal tissue, lesions, or unusual growths.
Signs We Look for During a Screening:
- Red or white patches in the mouth
- Sores that don’t heal
- Lumps or thickened areas
- Unexplained bleeding or pain
- Persistent sore throat or difficulty swallowing
If any suspicious areas are found, we may recommend additional tests or refer you to a specialist for further evaluation. Our goal is to provide you with peace of mind by catching any potential issues as early as possible.
Who Should Receive an Oral Cancer Screening?
While anyone can develop oral cancer, certain risk factors can increase your chances of developing the disease. We recommend that all patients receive regular screenings, especially those with higher risk factors.
Common Risk Factors for Oral Cancer:
- Tobacco Use: Smoking or using smokeless tobacco is one of the leading causes of oral cancer.
- Excessive Alcohol Use: Heavy alcohol consumption increases your risk, particularly when combined with tobacco use.
- HPV Infection: Certain strains of the human papillomavirus (HPV) are linked to oral and throat cancers.
- Age: Oral cancer is more common in individuals over the age of 40, though it can occur at any age.
- Sun Exposure: Prolonged exposure to the sun increases the risk of lip cancer.
Even if you don’t have these risk factors, regular screenings are an essential part of your overall oral health care.
Why Choose Riverwood Dental for Your Oral Cancer Screening?
At Riverwood Dental, we are dedicated to offering comprehensive care that looks beyond your teeth. Our oral cancer screenings are designed to be quick, easy, and painless, ensuring that you receive the highest standard of preventive care. Our experienced team is here to guide you through the screening process and answer any questions you may have.
What You Can Expect:
- Comprehensive Exams: We thoroughly examine your mouth and surrounding areas for any signs of oral cancer.
- Advanced Detection Tools: Our dental team uses modern techniques and tools to identify any abnormal tissue that may need further evaluation.
- Patient Education: We take the time to educate you on risk factors and signs to watch for between visits, helping you stay proactive about your health.
Schedule Your Oral Cancer Screening Today
Protect your health and ensure early detection of oral cancer with regular screenings at Riverwood Dental. Whether you’re in Atlanta, Smyrna, or Vinings, we’re here to provide the preventive care you need to stay healthy. Contact us today to schedule your next dental checkup and oral cancer screening.