Of course, as with any kind of illness, infection, or disease, early detection is one of the most important factors in determining whether or not the effects of said disease will have a long-lasting and life-altering consequences.
Typically during an exam conducted twice a year by your dentist, and examination and screening can lead to detecting cancer in its earliest stages. A few things that your dentist may be looking for lesions that may not have become cancerous just yet. At its most basic form, an oral cancer screening includes an exam done visually by your dentist of the tissue of the mouth under a bright light.
Oral cancer screenings also include a dentist or dental hygienist feeling the inside of the mouth for any abnormalities such as knots, soft spots, or anything else that may be of concern. Usually oral cancer is able to be detected by means of a white or red patch or sore in the mouth.
In certain cases, a dental professional will advise that their patient be given a special dye to be swished around in the mouth. If cancerous cells are present, the cells will soak up this dye making cancer cells much easier and quicker to identify. Dental professionals do their due diligence by taking special notes of questionable areas and reexamining them at a later time to see if there has been any change to the size, shape, or severity of these areas.
Oral cancer screening is a simple procedure, this examination can spell out a much safer future when detection is done early. In order to find out whether or not you may have oral cancer, we invite you and your loved ones to call the oral cancer exam dentist near you in Phoenix at Garden Lakes Family Dentistry, conveniently located at W Indian School Rd, N 107th Ave. For years, we have served patients from Gateway Crossing, Garden Lakes, Estates at Garden Lakes, Westridge Glen, Trailwood, Westwind, Villa De Paz, Morlen Meadows, Camelback Ranch, and elsewhere. Let us do the same for you! By contacting Garden Lakes Family Dentistry, you can rest knowing that you have done all you can to make sure you stay safe and healthy. Don’t hesitate, give their Phoenix office a call today!