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According to the American Dental Association, less than half of all adult Americans routinely visit the dentist. The recommended routine for dental visits is at least twice a year or once every six months. For the adults not getting to the dentist often enough, they are missing out on the smile protection provided by their dentist. Not only are they not getting exams and cleanings routinely, but they are also missing out on oral cancer screenings that your dentist can provide. Oral cancer is a deadly form of cancer when given time to advance. Routine screenings can help slow down the time that the disease could have to progress. Your dental team in Mansfield, TX offers oral cancer screenings. 

Early Catch = Higher Survival Rate

Early diagnosis of oral cancer allows for about an 84% survival rate. Unfortunately, oral cancer is a form of cancer that can go unnoticed for too long. The survival rate drops significantly the longer that oral cancer is allowed to spread. What does that mean? It means that finding signs of oral cancer early is important. It means that a screening at your dentist’s office during your routine visit can increase your odds of finding something early.

Who Is At Risk?

Due to the rise of HPV (human papillomavirus) in recent years, oral cancer is showing up in younger, non-smoking people more often than it used to. The risk is still higher for people that are smokers, male, and over the age of 40.

What Is A Screening?

To perform an oral cancer screening, your dentist will gently examine your smile to look for any abnormalities, bumps, or lesions inside your mouth, on your tongue or your lips. If you have experienced any big changes in your smile or in your overall health, it is always important to let your dentist know.

When was your last screening?

Oral cancer screenings are designed to save lives. To schedule a consultation with Mansfield Dental Associates in Mansfield, TX, call 817-473-6227. We proudly welcome patients from Mansfield and the surrounding areas, including South Arlington, Kennedale, Southeast Ft. Worth, Alvarado, Midlothian, and more.