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Did you know that regular appointments with the general dentist Jupiter aren’t just a routine health check for their teeth and gums? These dental visits include a noninvasive screen for oral cancer that takes only a few minutes to complete.

Frequently Asked Questions About Oral Cancer Screenings

Why is Oral Cancer Screening Necessary?

An oral cancer screening’s primary purpose is to detect and identify the early signs of cancers of the mouth and throat. Early detection of pre-cancerous lesions is extremely important so that these can be removed before the cancer cells get to spread to the other parts of the body. Catching this problem in its early stages increases the potential for successful treatment.

While the risk for developing oral cancer isn’t the same for all patients, annual oral cancer screening is recommended for everyone. This should be performed by a qualified dental health care provider during a dental appointment.

What Happens During an Oral Cancer Screening?

Your dentist examines the interior of your mouth to look for red or white patches of discoloration. Additionally, they also palpate abnormalities in your mouth tissues that include hard areas or lumps.

Signs of lumps or swollen lymph nodes are also checked in the areas around your neck and jawline. If the dentist finds anything unusual during the initial screening, a biopsy and a follow-up visit will be scheduled.

What are the Risk Factors for Oral Cancer?

• Oral cancer is twice as common in males as in females.
• Although oral cancer may occur in younger people, it mostly affects those who are over the age of 55.
• Poor Nutrition. Low intake of fruits and vegetables increases a person’s risk of oral cancer.
• Exposure to UV light. People exposed to sunlight and those who frequently visit tanning beds are more likely to develop oral cancer.
• Inherited gene mutations that trigger various syndromes in the body can increase a person’s likelihood of developing oral cancer.
• Regular use of tobacco and betel quid is associated with an increased risk of oral cancer.

Speak with a General Dentist Jupiter!

If you have questions about the screening itself or the importance of this practice, contact Seaside Dentistry to schedule an appointment today.