At Mansfield Dental Associates in Mansfield, Texas, it’s our goal to help our patients achieve and maintain the highest level of oral and systemic health possible. We understand that each and every patient’s needs and health goals are different. That’s why we personally design each and every appointment — whether routine or specific — for each patient’s unique requirements. Today, Dr. S. Blair Jones and Dr. Seth Harris want to discuss one aspect of routine dental exams that we perform for every patient who takes a seat in our dental chair: a visual oral cancer test.
Oral Cancer Testing in Mansfield, TX
For our patients who already have healthy teeth and gums and practice quality at-home dental hygiene, we (and the ADA) recommend scheduling dental checkups and cleanings every six months. If you have specific oral health care needs, Dr. Jones and Dr. Harris will recommend a treatment schedule to keep your mouth in top-top shape. At this routine appointments, we’ll check the health and strength of your teeth and gums, as well as screen for cavities, bruxism, gum disease, sleep apnea, and other health conditions. We’ll also talk with you about any problems you’re having, as well as any cosmetic goals you wish to achieve.
At these appointments, we’ll also screen for oral cancer. How? By visually examining the soft tissues of your mouth, including the inside of your cheeks, your lips, your tongue, and your gum tissue. We’ll also ask you about any chronic throat pain, a change in your voice, ear aches, dramatic weight loss, change in the way your teeth fit together, or any other unexplained changes in your oral health. As a part of the screening, your dentist will gently probe the mouth, looking for sores, lumps, rough spots, or other abnormalities in the gums, lips, or tongue.
Like with any other type of cancer and other serious health conditions, oral cancer is best treated when caught early. That’s why we’ll visually screen for it at every six-month appointment you have at our Mansfield dentist office. Some risk factors of oral cancer are tobacco use, heavy alcohol use, family history, age, and excessive sun exposure. Dr. Jones and Dr. Harris recommend regular screenings for oral cancer, especially if you are over the age of forty or have any of these risk factors.
About Mansfield Dental Associates:
At Mansfield Dental Associates, Dr. Blair Jones and Dr. Seth Harris share the same vision and philosophy when it comes to patient care. We provide thorough, compassionate preventive dental services in addition to effective treatments for teeth grinding and TMJ pain. Contact our Mansfield, TX dentist office at 817-473-6227 to schedule your next appointment.
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