Undergoing regular cancer screenings is beneficial and important for anyone. It is crucial that you do not overlook oral cancer. This disease is found in over 30,000 people each year. You can get an oral cancer screening at your regular dental appointment. At Dental Associates of Basking Ridge, we help our patients identify any abnormalities that could result in oral cancer. To learn more about our services and what we can do for you and your needs, contact our office today to schedule an appointment. Here are some questions you may have:
What are the types of oral cancer?
There are various types of oral cancer. Many of these types of cancer have no symptoms. To identify these types of cancer, a professional must conduct an exam. Cancer can be found in the gums, tongue, salivary glands, throat, and face. The various types of oral cancer that can be looked for during a screening include the following:
- Malignant squamous cell carcinoma
- Teratoma
- Adenocarcinoma
- Melanoma
What are the most common causes of oral cancer?
Over 75% of oral cancers can be prevented. If you struggle with an addiction to alcohol or tobacco, your dentist may make a recommendation that can assist you in reducing your consumption or quitting. If you are a user of these products, it is crucial that you undergo regular screenings for oral cancer. Oral cancer can be caused by the following:
- Smoking
- Tobacco use including dip and chewing tobacco
- Excessive alcohol consumption
What can I expect during an oral cancer examination?
If you are going to your routine dental appointment and are planning on having an oral cancer examination with your doctor, you may be wondering what to expect. First, your dentist will assess any abnormalities and look for any lesions, lumps, thickened tissues, or red patches. If they do find abnormalities, they may take a biopsy of the spot to determine if the findings are cancerous. This screening will be entirely painless and should be conducted regularly.
If you have any further questions about oral cancer examinations and when and where you should have them, do not hesitate to reach out to our experienced dental team. At Dental Associates of Basking Ridge, we will assist our patients in identifying any abnormalities or concerns. To learn more about how we can assist you, contact our office today.
Contact The Dental Associates of Basking Ridge
Dental Associates of Basking Ridge is a compassionate, gentle, and professional state-of-the-art dental practice serving Basking Ridge, Morris & Somerset County. Our office is always ready to greet our patients with a smile, take the time to answer any questions, and provide the quality dental services our patients expect. Please contact us to schedule an appointment. We look forward to serving you!
