Our Fort Lee NJ Dentist Emphasizes the Importance of Oral Cancer Screenings
Catching oral cancer early is crucial for effective treatment and can make the difference between a serious, life-threatening condition and a manageable one. Our trusted Fort Lee NJ dentist offers comprehensive oral cancer screenings alongside other general dentistry treatments to ensure your smile—and overall health—remain in top condition. Learn more about why oral cancer screenings are essential in this overview.
Why Undergo Oral Cancer Screenings?
Oral cancer screenings are a straightforward and non-invasive way to check for abnormalities in the mouth, gums, and tongue that could indicate cancer. During a screening, our Fort Lee NJ dentist will examine your oral tissues for any signs of discoloration, sores, lumps, or other irregularities. If any concerning areas are found, samples are taken and sent to a lab for further analysis. Early detection is key, as it allows for timely treatment when cancer is most manageable. Regular oral cancer screenings are vital for several reasons:
• Detect Cancer Early: Oral cancer screenings can identify cancer before it has a chance to spread, increasing the chances of successful treatment.
• Early Treatment: Finding oral cancer at its earliest stage allows for treatment when it is typically most effective.
• Life-Saving: Regular screenings can be life-saving by catching cancer before it becomes severe.
Symptoms of Oral Cancer
Be aware of symptoms that may indicate oral cancer. If you experience any of the following, we encourage you to schedule a screening with our Fort Lee NJ dentist:
• Non-healing sores in the mouth
• Sores that continue to bleed
• Lumps or hard spots within the mouth
• White or red spots in the mouth
• Numbness or pain when biting down
Risk Factors for Oral Cancer
Certain factors may increase your risk of developing oral cancer. If you identify with any of these risk factors, it is especially important to include oral cancer screenings in your regular check-ups:
• Smoker or Tobacco Chewer: Tobacco use is a significant risk factor for oral cancer.
• Over 40: Individuals over 40 years of age are at a higher risk.
• Heavy Alcohol Consumption: Excessive alcohol use can increase the risk of oral cancer.
• Male: Men are generally more likely to develop oral cancer compared to women.
• Excessive Sun Exposure: Prolonged sun exposure can contribute to the risk of both skin and oral cancers.
Schedule Your Oral Cancer Screening
Undetected oral cancer can advance and become life-threatening. Regular oral cancer screenings are an essential part of maintaining your overall health and can catch issues before they become severe. To schedule an oral cancer screening with our Fort Lee NJ dentist, contact Anderson Dental today. Let us help you keep your smile—and your health—in the best shape possible.
