The benefits of oral cancer screening are substantial. Early diagnosis and assessment are crucial in the successful treatment of oral cancer, as they can significantly improve the outcome and reduce the severity of treatment required. Regular screenings provide peace of mind, knowing potential issues can be addressed promptly. Additionally, screenings can identify other non-cancerous conditions that might require attention, contributing to overall oral health. At Santa Rosa Dentistry, our thorough screenings are designed to catch issues early and provide the best care.
The oral cancer screening process at Santa Rosa Dentistry is straightforward and non-invasive. During your visit, our dentists in Santa Rosa will begin with a visual examination, looking for any discoloration, sores, or lumps in your mouth and throat. This is followed by a physical examination, where we gently feel the tissues inside your mouth to check for unusual masses or tenderness. After the screening, we will discuss the results and outline any necessary follow-up steps.
Oral cancer screening is recommended for everyone, but certain groups are at higher risk and should be particularly vigilant. Regular screenings are especially important for people who smoke, drink heavily, have had a lot of sun exposure, or have a family history of cancer. Additionally, adults over the age of 40 are at an increased risk and should include oral cancer screenings in their routine dental care. Don’t ignore any sores, lumps, or trouble swallowing that won’t go away; it’s important to seek an oral cancer screening near you promptly.
Common symptoms include persistent sores, lumps, difficulty swallowing, and changes in the color or texture of the tissues in your mouth.
It is recommended to undergo an oral cancer screening annually, especially if you fall into a high-risk category.
No, this screening is quick, painless, and doesn’t involve any needles. We will simply take a close look and feel around your mouth to check everything out.
Contact Santa Rosa Dentistry today to line up your consultation or learn more about our preventive dental services. Visit us in Santa Rosa, CA, or call to make an appointment and take the first step toward safeguarding your oral health.