Oral Cancer Screening Near You
Oral cancer can cause serious harm to your smile and your general wellness. Early detection and intervention are essential to effectively treating the condition and helping patients regain optimal health.
For patients 20 years or older, NW Calgary dentists advise getting a screening once every 3 years. Patients over 40 should have their smiles screened once a year. If this is something that you’re looking to receive, call us at Avyan Family Dental. We’ll connect you with one of our dentists, who will be able to assist.
What is Oral Cancer?
In simple terms, oral cancer refers to cancer of the mouth and can impact your lips, tongue, gums, cheek lining, tonsils, and the roof and floor of your oral cavity. Sores that won’t heal, mouth pain, or difficulty swallowing may be signs that this condition has developed. Every case is different; however, so you will need to visit a dentist near you and have your mouth examined to acquire a proper diagnosis and determine the best method moving forward.
Oral cancer can arise due to several reasons, including smoking, HPV, or prolonged sun exposure, namely to your facial region. Genetics may also play a role. Regardless of the reason, visiting your dentist will ensure you get the treatment you need as soon as possible.
If you’re unsure whether you require such care, it’s always wise to contact a dentist and have them examine your oral cavity.
What Happens During a Screening?
Like a routine dental checkup, an oral cancer screening in NW Calgary is a quick and painless treatment. The steps of the screening are described below:
- Medical Review. First, your dentist will go over your medical history, asking questions about lifestyle habits and risk factors.
- Visual Exam. Your dentist may use a small light or a mirror to inspect every area of your mouth. They will look for any abnormal lumps, swelling or discoloured tissue patches. They might also feel along your lymph nodes, jaw, and neck.
- Special Tests. If needed, x-rays will be taken to evaluate your underlying structures.
- Biopsy. Should anything of concern be found, your dentist may refer you to a physician so a biopsy (tissue sample) can be taken. At a laboratory, the technicians will study the sample to see if cancer is present.
Based on the screening results, your dentist will make recommendations tailored to your case. These can include more frequent screenings or addressing certain behaviors.
Ready to Schedule Your Appointment?
If you’re ready to book your next oral cancer screening in NW Calgary, connect with the team here at our community dental office. We are here to walk with you on your lifelong dental journey.
Call us or send us a message via the form on our website to get started!