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At least once a year, adults need to see their dentist for an oral cancer screening. We provide these for our Mansfield, TX, patients, which helps them maintain optimal oral health and catch serious problems in the earliest stages. Find out why you should schedule your oral cancer screening today!

The Warning Signs

You should be aware of the warning signs of oral cancer. Often, people report persistent hoarseness, changes in their voice, a sore throat that doesn’t heal after a week or more, or sore spots and lesions that last for over two weeks. Other symptoms include persistent earaches, changes in how your smile fits together, and unexplained weight loss. If you experience one or more of these issues, the let us know right away. We will perform an exam to uncover any indicators of cancerous or precancerous areas.

The Importance of Routine Screenings

Did you know that of the nearly 50,000 people diagnosed with the disease each year, more than half succumb to oral cancer within five years? The major factor behind the high mortality rate is the fact that the disease is rarely caught in the early stages, which means by the time people uncover the issue, the disease has grown into a more serious stage. Having a screening every year, especially if you’re above 40, is crucial. Risk factors also include excessive sun exposure, a family history of the disease, and serious alcohol consumption. When you undergo the procedure, we will gently examine and probe your tongue, gums, lips, and oral tissues for abnormalities and lumps, rough spots, and sores that could indicate trouble.

See Us Twice a Year

We suggest a screening at least once per year. However, to maintain optimal oral health we suggest visiting us every six months. During your visits, we will perform a checkup to watch for signs of trouble, such as tooth decay, gum disease, TMJ disorder, and bruxism (teeth grinding), common issues that could threaten the health and stability of your smile unless treated or prevented. We will also clean your teeth, a procedure that involves removing all plaque buildup from your teeth, a process that limits the risk of tooth decay and gum disease, while also providing a brighter smile and fresher breath. If you have any questions about our oral cancer screenings, or if you’re ready to schedule a checkup and cleaning, then contact our team today. We want to help you and your family enjoy optimal oral health!

Do You Need a Screening?

Our team would like to help you enjoy a healthy smile with a preventive approach to dental care. For more information on our family dental care options, schedule a consultation by calling our dentist’s office in Mansfield, TX, today at 817-473-6227.