When it comes to oral health, you may assume that your six-month cleaning is all it takes to ensure your mouth is in its best condition. However, there are other key factors that can contribute to the wellbeing of your mouth, gums and teeth.
One such factor is an oral cancer screening. This exam should be performed annually at minimum and aims to detect any issues before they become problematic.
Well over 50,000 Americans were diagnosed with cancer in the past year. But the good news is, you can protect yourself. Read on for more.
What is oral cancer?
Cancer happens when an uncontrolled divide of abnormal cells occurs in the body. Oral cancer usually presents itself on the lips (typically the lower), on the inside of the mouth, the tonsils, salivary glands, throat, tongue, soft mouth tissues and even the esophagus.
Believe it or not, many people who are diagnosed with oral cancer could have avoided such a diagnosis through preventative care. This is why seeing your dentist every six months and undergoing an oral cancer screening is so important.
Your oral cancer exam
During your appointment, Dr. Milan takes an in-depth look at your mouth, including all of the soft tissues in your oral cavity. He examines the roof of your mouth, inner cheeks, tongue and the mouth floor and lips. He will feel around for any bumps or oddities in the mouth and even the face, chin and neck.
If a lesion happens to be found, a biopsy is done, sent out and evaluated by a specialist for proper diagnosis.
To protect yourself from oral cancer, you should maintain optimum oral health and be aware of anything peculiar or out of the ordinary on or in your mouth and make a dental appointment if anything crops up. Using tobacco increases your risk of oral cancer, as can excessive use of alcohol or exposure to the sun, as well as the human papilloma virus.
Oral Cancer Screening in Birmingham
As a trusted dentist in Birmingham, Michigan for over 20 years, Dr. Milan and his elite staff have helped countless people achieve the height of oral health. With a focus on preventative dentistry in Michigan, along with restorative and even advanced and cosmetic, Dr. Milan’s treatment options run the gamut.
As a specialist in the toughest of cases, Dr. Milan’s expertise is truly transformative. Now is the time to gain the oral health that is key to overall health. If you are due for an oral cancer exam, contact us today. We look forward to hearing from you.