Early diagnosis is the key to the best possible outcome!
Oral Cancer Screening Dentist
Did you know that oral cancer claims one life every single day in the United States? The high rate of mortality is because people do not seek medical help until the time the cancer has advanced. At Dental Oasis Family Dentistry, we encourage you to take a life-saving measure by way of an oral cancer screening, today.
Oral Cancer Screenings by Dentist
A thorough oral examination is undertaken where we will look for signs of abnormal intra-oral or extra-oral tissue. Some of the symptoms that we screen for, include:
- Red & white bumps.
- Hard lumps.
- Rough patches.
- Any changes in the position of the teeth.
While a lot of the screening is done visually, however an experienced dentist will also check your cheeks as well as the inside of your mouth. You can rest assured that the screening will be gentle and you will feel comfortable through the process.
Besides an oral exam, in some cases a screening dye may be used. This involves the patient rinsing the mouth with a blue dye before the exam. Any abnormal cells would look blue on absorbing the dye. Additionally, an oral cancer screening light will show up any abnormal tissues as looking white.
What should be the frequency of oral cancer screening?
Once you visit our office for your first exam, we will screen you as well as identify risk factors, if any. Basis the risk factors we will be able to suggest the frequency of screening. For high-risk patients’ annual screenings are a norm.
It was earlier believed that men alone were at elevated risk. However, with both men and women chewing tobacco, smoking, and drinking alcohol both are at risk. Also, it is important to remember that HPV virus can also cause oral cancer. With HPV virus being contracted as early as teenage years, the susceptibility to oral cancer spreads over a large age group.
At Dental Oasis Family Dentistry, we help with early screening of oral cancer. As an experienced dentist, we are well-equipped to identify any abnormalities in the mouth. Just in case we see any abnormality we can conduct a biopsy. In other cases, we may refer you to an oncologist to carry out further tests.
When should you call us?
Oral Screening needs to be undertaken periodically as prevention is the best cure. However, in case you notice any of the below abnormalities, you need to reach our office immediately for an oral screening and examination:
- If running your tongue along your cheeks, gums and roof of your mouth reveals any rough patches, bums, or lumps, you need to take note. It is advisable to wait for a couple of days to see if it could be a result of eating food that was too abrasive. If the condition persists, it is time for a thorough oral screening.
To decrease your risk for oral cancer, ensure that you do not chew tobacco products. Stop smoking tobacco products as well as limiting your alcohol intake can also reduce your risk. Limiting sun exposure and preventing sunburns are also other things that you can actively do to reduce the risk of oral cancer. Checking with your physician for your eligibility for HPV vaccine is yet another preventive measure that you can undertake.
Why choose Dr Sharda Patel as an oral cancer screening dentist in Pleasanton?
You can rely on Dr. Sharda Patel who is quick to spot any abnormality in the mouth. A thorough yet gentle screening will have you covered! In addition, references to qualified oncologists should you need it, will ensure that you have access to timey treatment.
As a busy professional herself, Dr. Sharda Patel understands and treat every patient with their unique needs. High quality service, fast yet comprehensive service, flexible scheduling, and your personal comfort are her primary areas of focus! Long lasting patient relationships are the rewards of the Dental Oasis Family Dentistry.
Oral Cancer Screening FAQs
1. Are oral cancer screenings painful?
No. You can rest assured that the test is painless. It involves your dentist conducting a visual examination of the tissue in and around your mouth.
2. What happens if the dentist sees anything of concern?
The next stage is a biopsy where a small amount of tissue is removed for further examination.
3. How often do I need an oral cancer screening?
Typically, a bi-annual screening should be enough. Should your dentist see multiple risk factors, a more frequent screening may be necessary.
4. What are some of the risk factors associated with oral cancer?
Smoking, chewing of tobacco, consumption of alcohol, present some significant risks when it comes to oral cancer.
5. What are some warning signs of oral cancer?
Warning signs of oral cancer include:
- Red or white patches in or behind the mouth.
- Mouth sores or ulcers that bleed easily and do not heal.
- Unexplained lump in the neck, throat, or floor of the mouth.
- Difficulty swallowing.
- Pain and tenderness in teeth or gums.
- Change in the fit of dentures.
- Unpleasant sensations.
- Diminished ability in opening jaw, chewing, or swallowing.
- Swelling or fullness in neck.
- Voice changes.
6. Where in the oral cavity does oral cancer take place?
The most common locations for cancer in the oral cavity are the tongue, tonsils, oropharynx and gums and floor of the mouth.
7. What type of doctor should I see if I have oral cancer?
An oncologist or otolaryngologist who is specifically trained in treating diseases of the mouth and throat needs to be referred to.
8. Is oral cancer treatable?
Fortunately, for most people, it is. The earlier oral cancer is caught, the easier it is to treat.
9. How long does oral cancer treatment last?
The length of treatment depends on several factors including the stage of cancer, its spread and more.
10. How can I book an appointment for oral cancer screening?
You can simply fill this form to schedule an appointment or call us at (925)-846-4491 and our friendly customer support team will guide you.
Book your screening appointment now!
Say yes to early detection. At Dental Oasis Family Dentistry, we offer you an extremely comfortable and stress-free oral cancer screening procedure. Exemplary care and warm, friendly service is our hallmark. In the hands of a caring professional, you can be completely at ease. Call us at 925 846 4491 or email us at office@dentaloasispleasanton.com or click on following button to schedule an oral cancer screening appointment with us.
We look forward to caring for your smile!
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