Oral Cancer Screenings Lincoln

Prevalence of Oral Cancer

The Oral Cancer Foundation states that nearly 50,000 individuals living in the United States are diagnosed with oral cancer each year. With only slightly less than half of that number living beyond the standard five-year survival rate, experts believe early detection is the most pivotal solution to raising a person’s chances of survival.

Signs of Oral Cancer

While some symptoms are more visibly evident than others, it often takes a trained eye to spot many of the most concerning symptoms associated with oral cancer. While waiting to see your dentist in Lincoln, be aware of the following signs, no matter if you believe you might be at risk:

• A lump or area of hard tissue on your lips or in your mouth
• Red/white patches inside your mouth that appear and feel scaly
• Bad breath
• Oral sores that do not appear to be healing
• Difficulty opening and closing your mouth
• Sore throat
• Difficulty chewing and/or swallowing
• Tongue pain
• Ill-fitting dentures
• Loose teeth

Why Oral Cancer Screenings Are Necessary

There is a good chance that in the past, you didn’t realize you were undergoing an oral cancer screening. When performed, the process typically only takes a few minutes because our team is skilled and trained to identify problem areas quickly.

To avoid becoming one of the estimated 50,000 individuals who will be diagnosed with oral cancer each year, it is not only necessary that you maintain optimal oral hygiene and forgo bad habits (i.e., smoking, tobacco use, alcohol consumption), but you should also keep your regular six-month dental checkups and cleanings. Failing to do so will put you at greater risk should you learn you have oral cancer. Without early detection, the disease can spread, resulting in treatment that may or may not be successful. The longer cancer remains undetected, the lower your chances of survival.

At Williamsburg Dental, we care about more than just your oral health. We believe in helping improve your well-being. Regular oral cancer screenings allow you to continue being proactive regarding your health and live a long, happy life.