Compassionate Family Dentists Serving Morris & Somerset County
One of the most important things you can do for yourself is to undergo regular cancer screenings. It is critical not to overlook oral cancer, as this disease is found in over 30,000 people every year. At your regular dental appointment, be sure to request an oral cancer screening that can easily be conducted by your dentist. At Dental Associates of Basking Ridge, we help our patients identify any abnormalities that could result in oral cancer. Contact our office today to schedule an appointment and learn how we can help.
Types of Oral Cancer
There are a number of different types of oral cancer that can impact an individual, whether they realize it or not. Many of these types of cancer have no symptoms, and therefore can only be identified by a professional conducting an exam. Oral cancer can be found in the throat, gums, salivary glands, tongue, and even face. Some of the various types of oral cancer that can be looked for during a screening include the following:
- Malignant squamous cell carcinoma
- Teratoma
- Adenocarcinoma
- Melanoma
Causes of Oral Cancer
Oral cancer is a very serious condition. However, over 75 percent of all oral cancers can be prevented because they are caused by completely avoidable behaviors. If you struggle with an addiction to tobacco or alcohol, your dentist can make recommendations that may help you reduce your consumption or quit altogether. It is critical that you undergo regular screenings for oral cancer if you are a user of these products. Thinking about reducing your use of harmful products can be incredibly beneficial to your future health. Oral cancer is commonly caused by:
- Smoking
- Tobacco use, including dip and chewing tobacco
- Excessive alcohol consumption
What to Expect At Your Oral Cancer Examination
Many people wonder what they should expect when they go to the dentist for an oral cancer examination. The dentist will assess any abnormalities and look for red patches, lesions, lumps, or thickened tissue that may be cause for concern. If any abnormalities are found, you may undergo a biopsy to determine whether the findings are cancerous. The screening will be entirely painless and should be conducted regularly.
Contact Dental Associates of Basking Ridge
Dental Associates of Basking Ridge has the experience and skill it takes to screen patients for any signs of oral cancer. If you have concerns about the possibility of oral cancer, it is important that you consult with your dentist as soon as possible. Our office in Basking Ridge has proudly served clients throughout Somerset County, New Jersey since 1947. Contact our office today to schedule an appointment.
