Thanks to the continuous improvements in healthcare, there are now numerous ways for people to be aware of the current state of their general wellness. And aside from this, there are also types of examinations and screenings available to track the state of a person’s oral health. One way is by undergoing an oral cancer screening.
At Westchase Smiles Institute, we highly encourage our patients to undergo the said screening procedure to detect the uncontrollable growth of cells in the body with is cancer. As most people may already know, the said condition can be severe and devastating. Fortunately, with oral cancer, if diagnosis and treatments are done early, a patient’s chance for survival is high. For patients who are thinking twice of giving the said treatment a go, read on below!
Reasons to Consider Oral Cancer Screenings
The procedure is painless and straightforward
Contrary to what most people think, the said procedure can be completed in just 5 minutes! Curious what takes place during the screening process? The dentist will perform a simple visual examination of the lips, face, and mouth for precancerous and cancerous symptoms. Once any irregularity is discovered, further diagnosis will be conducted. Patients should undergo screening once every year during their routine visits.
Oral cancer is becoming prevalent among younger patients
Usually, the condition is common among older patients who are smokers and drinkers. However, it would seem nowadays that young men and women are being diagnosed with oral cancer. Due to this, it is thought that having HPV (human papillomavirus) makes a patient more at risk of oral cancer. The ideal ages who should consider the screening service are those between the ages of 25 to 50.
Early detection and prevention are key
The best way to reduce one’s risk of oral cancer is by minding one’s lifestyle choices. Keep in mind that excessive alcohol consumption, cigarette smoking, chewing tobacco, catching HPV, and excessive exposure to sunlight increases a person’s risk. The good news is, with the help of oral cancer screenings, the survival rate has increased!
Even if a person does not have oral cancer during their initial screening, isn’t it better to be sure? With that being said, make sure to book an appointment with Westchase Smiles Institute and to take advantage of our Oral Cancer Screening in Tampa, FL!
