Oral cancer screenings allow us to identify early warning signs and prevent severe damage.
Scheduling regular oral cancer screenings is one of the best ways to prioritize your dental health. Oral cancer screenings play an important role in finding cancer early, when treatment is most successful and the chances of recovery are best. At Dentistry by the Lake, oral cancer screenings are one of the many services we offer to ensure you can maintain great oral health throughout your life.
Anyone can benefit from an oral cancer screening, although certain people in the Toronto, Ontario area are more at risk. People who use tobacco in any form, drink alcohol frequently, or spend extended periods of time in the sun are at a higher risk.
Additionally, individuals with a history of human papillomavirus (HPV) infection or a family history of cancer should exercise extra caution. If you are unsure if you have ever had an oral cancer screening, our team can explain the procedure and answer any questions you have, as well as complete the screening when you are ready.
Oral cancer screenings are quick, painless, and non-invasive. A member of our team will visually inspect your lips, tongue, gums, throat, and the inside of your cheeks for any strange sores, lumps, or discolorations. We may also gently examine your jaw and neck for anomalies.
It is important to understand that oral cancer can go undetected for quite some time, as there are minimal signs in the early stages. Regular screenings help detect any issues before they become problematic. In fact, when identified early, oral cancer has an 80-90% survival rate, but once it progresses, therapy becomes more complicated.
Ultimately, making oral cancer screenings a regular part of your dental appointments is an active step toward safeguarding your general health. Contact us today to learn more.