Oral Cancer Screenings
Bay Area Dental, Aberdeen, MD
Oral Cancer Screenings
Bay Area Dental, Aberdeen, MD
Oral Cancer Screenings
Oral cancer, also known as mouth cancer, can happen to anyone, although research suggests that it is slightly more common in men. Those who smoke or use tobacco products are six times more likely than nonsmokers to develop oral cancer. Oral cancer is also more likely to occur in those with a genetic predisposition, prolonged sun exposure, or those who drink alcohol excessively. However, it is important to note that anyone can get oral cancer.
We place a strong emphasis on routine oral cancer screenings because early detection truly saves lives. Our team is fully certified to identify and evaluate any unusual changes in your oral tissues. By discovering these signs in their earliest stages, we can help you access proactive treatments that can halt or completely eliminate the risk of developing a more advanced health condition.
Your recovery plan is carefully designed around the unique characteristics and stage of the tumor. Often, the most effective approach is to simply remove the small growth, ensuring a protective barrier of healthy tissue is kept around it. To completely safeguard your health, doctors may then use advanced treatments like radiation or chemotherapy to cleanly wash away any microscopic cells left behind.
Oral Cancer Screenings
Oral cancer, also known as mouth cancer, can happen to anyone, although research suggests that it is slightly more common in men. Those who smoke or use tobacco products are six times more likely than nonsmokers to develop oral cancer. Oral cancer is also more likely to occur in those with a genetic predisposition, prolonged sun exposure, or those who drink alcohol excessively. However, it is important to note that anyone can get oral cancer.
We place a strong emphasis on routine oral cancer screenings because early detection truly saves lives. Our team is fully certified to identify and evaluate any unusual changes in your oral tissues. By discovering these signs in their earliest stages, we can help you access proactive treatments that can halt or completely eliminate the risk of developing a more advanced health condition.
Your recovery plan is carefully designed around the unique characteristics and stage of the tumor. Often, the most effective approach is to simply remove the small growth, ensuring a protective barrier of healthy tissue is kept around it. To completely safeguard your health, doctors may then use advanced treatments like radiation or chemotherapy to cleanly wash away any microscopic cells left behind.
Early Warning Signs of Oral Cancer
What to Look For -
Oral cancer can develop on the lips, tongue, gums, or the lining of the mouth and throat. Because early detection is absolutely crucial to the success of your treatment and recovery, Dr. Kujala recommends a professional oral cancer screening at least once a year during your routine check-up. Between visits, it is incredibly important to listen to your body and look out for early warning signs. Common symptoms of oral cancer include:
Color Changes
White or red patches discovered anywhere inside your mouth.
Throat Irritation
A lingering soreness or the constant sensation that something is caught in the back of your throat.
Radiating Pain
Unexplained ear pain that doesn't seem to stem from an ear infection.
Unexplained Bleeding
Frequent or sudden bleeding in the mouth without an obvious cause.
Persistent Sores
A mouth sore or ulcer that fails to heal within the time frame of two weeks.
Functional Difficulty
Pain or trouble when swallowing, speaking, or moving your jaw and tongue.
Unexplained Weight Loss
Rapid, dramatic weight loss without a change in your diet or exercise habits.
Lumps & Changes in Texture
New lumps, thickenings, or swellings in or around your mouth and neck.
Early Warning Signs of Oral Cancer
What to Look For -
Oral cancer can develop on the lips, tongue, gums, or the lining of the mouth and throat. Because early detection is absolutely crucial to the success of your treatment and recovery, Dr. Kujala recommends a professional oral cancer screening at least once a year during your routine check-up. Between visits, it is incredibly important to listen to your body and look out for early warning signs. Common symptoms of oral cancer include:
Color Changes
White or red patches discovered anywhere inside your mouth.
Throat Irritation
A lingering soreness or the constant sensation that something is caught in the back of your throat.
Radiating Pain
Unexplained ear pain that doesn't seem to stem from an ear infection.
Persistent Sores
A mouth sore or ulcer that fails to heal within the time frame of two weeks.
Functional Difficulty
Pain or trouble when swallowing, speaking, or moving your jaw and tongue.
Unexplained Weight Loss
Rapid, dramatic weight loss without a change in your diet or exercise habits.
Unexplained Bleeding
Frequent or sudden bleeding in the mouth without an obvious cause.
Lumps & Changes in Texture
New lumps, thickenings, or swellings in or around your mouth and neck.
When to Schedule a Consultation
Many of these symptoms can be caused by much less serious dental issues or minor infections. However, if you notice any of these changes lasting for more than a week without improvement, please don’t wait for your annual check-up. Contact our office immediately to schedule a proactive consultation so we can ensure your smile and your overall health stay safe and protected.
When to Schedule a Consultation
Many of these symptoms can be caused by much less serious dental issues or minor infections. However, if you notice any of these changes lasting for more than a week without improvement, please don’t wait for your annual check-up. Contact our office immediately to schedule a proactive consultation so we can ensure your smile and your overall health stay safe and protected.
When to Schedule a Consultation
Many of these symptoms can be caused by much less serious dental issues or minor infections. However, if you notice any of these changes lasting for more than a week without improvement, please don’t wait for your annual check-up. Contact our office immediately to schedule a proactive consultation so we can ensure your smile and your overall health stay safe and protected.
