WHAT IS ORAL CANCER AND THE TREATMENT OPTIONS AVAILABLE

We visit our doctor for cancer screenings, including skin cancer, breast cancer, and colon cancer. But how often do we think about other types of cancer, including oral cancer? Oral cancer is as much of a concern as other types of cancer in the body. There are advantages to working with a dentist in Carrollton, TX who offers services such as oral cancer screenings during routine appointments. The purpose of screenings is the ability to achieve early detection, which can give patients a better chance at successfully treating the condition.

WHAT IS ORAL CANCER?

Oral cancer develops anywhere in the mouth. This may include the:

• Tongue
• Cheek
• Throat
• Soft tissues

Each day, over 100 people are diagnosed with oral cancer, and this condition, if left untreated, can result in death. It is just as important for patients to screen for oral cancer as it is any other type of cancer in the body. Oral cancer screening is easier than ever! Patients who visit their dentist for their routine appointments can undergo a screening each time they sit in the dental chair. If patients have any concerns regarding sores or growths in their mouth, they can visit their dental professional and request an oral cancer screening to stay proactive with the diagnosis and treatment of such conditions. Oral cancer is often physically visible, making it one of the easiest cancers to diagnose early.

During every examination at Hebron Smiles and Smilebliss Orthodontics, Dr. Adnan Saleem offers oral cancer screening. This is all done with a visual check. The dentist will check all the areas of the mouth for any signs of cancer. Any abnormalities that indicate a possible concern may result in patients begin referred to a specialist for a biopsy to check for cancerous cells. Oral cancer is often noted as an ulcer or bump in the mouth that does not go away or changes in color and shape. They can sometimes be painful or disrupt eating or speaking. Hopefully, patients visit our practice early enough for an effective diagnosis and can discuss treatment with a specialist.

WHAT TREATMENT OPTIONS ARE AVAILABLE FOR ORAL CANCER?

There are many ways in which oral cancer can be treated. Some patients can have it simply excised from their mouth during a surgical procedure. However, radiation and chemotherapy are still solutions that are used for more aggressive or late-stage cancers. It is important for patients to work with a professional who is experienced in cancers to also monitor and ensure that the cancer has not spread elsewhere to the body. Then a certain treatment plan may need to be reconsidered based on the spreading of cancerous cells.

CAN I SURVIVE ORAL CANCER?

Oral cancer has many advantages over other types of cancers. Oral cancer is easy to spot, unlike internal cancers which may require mammograms, scoping, or x-rays to find. Additionally, oral cancer can sometimes be reduced in overall risk. Patients with a higher risk of developing oral cancer are those who abuse tobacco and alcohol or who have HPV16. Early diagnosis can increase one’s survival rate to up to 90%, which is why it is essential to have a dentist monitor the mouth regularly for signs of cancer. Patients are urged to book an appointment with their dentist if they have a growth or bump that is not resolving and may be an indication of cancer, even if it is between routine visits and screenings.

SCHEDULE YOUR ORAL CANCER SCREENING TODAY

Dr. Adnan Saleem and the team at Hebron Smiles and Smilebliss Orthodontics in Carrollton, TX are dedicated to ensuring patients have access to the preventive services they need to look and feel their best—while ensuring overall health and wellness. Oral cancer is a serious condition that should not be treated lightly, and with routine screenings, patients can get an early diagnosis and seek treatment soon enough to be successful. If you are interested in having an oral cancer screening scheduled with your next routine visit, contact the front office team for an appointment at (972) 388-3320 and visit the office at 1745 East Hebron Parkway, Suite 124.

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