Oral Cancer Screening
Restoration Smiles
Tomball, TX
We provide you with quality dental care during your checkups, along with evaluating your smile and your overall health. Most patients are taken aback when they find out about the large amount of surface area that lines the mouth. This oral lining usually heals swiftly, but it is susceptible to changes that necessitate additional monitoring and evaluation. Herein lies the importance of oral cancer screening.
Oral cancer can strike anyone at any time. Those at higher risk, on the other hand, should schedule regular checkups with their dentist. Individuals who are at a higher risk of developing oral cancer include:
- Tobacco Users – Smokers are more to develop oral cancer than non-smokers or non-tobacco users. Tobacco contains up to 3,000 chemicals, that have also been detected in embalming fluids and pesticides.
- Alcohol Abusers – Individuals who consume large amounts are at risk of suffering from mouth cancer as a result of excess alcohol exposure to their gums.
- Sun Bathers – While some Vitamin D can be obtained by occasional basking in the sun, indiscriminate exposure without safety is harmful to your health. Leaving it untreated can contribute to the emergence of cancer on your lips.
- Betel Nut Chewers – Chewing betel nut is prevalent in many cultures. However, this carcinogen is detrimental to your overall oral health.
- People who engage in oral sex – Infection from a particular strain of Human Papillomavirus( HPV) could cause oral cancer.
- People who have a history of oral cancer.
According to the American Cancer Society, approximately 7,000 people die from oral cancer each year, out of 30,000 cases of an oral cancer diagnosis. Furthermore, cellular changes that occur below the surface are harder to identify until they reach a critical stage. Early diagnosis of oral cancer coupled with an immediate follow-up treatment can increase the likelihood of positive results. Hence it is critical to have regular checkups. Consult your dentist if you notice any unusual changes in your mouth tissue. You will most probably be subjected to a biopsy and microscopic examination in a lab.
Non-cancerous changes in your mouth tissues can occur as a result of oral warts, autoimmune lesions, and other causes. When you understand the differences, you may wonder, “How can I conduct an oral cancer screening near me?” For oral cancer screening treatment Houston, TX, Dr. Mai’s background in oral pathology qualifies her to assess if any abnormalities need further monitoring or removal.
We recognize that tobacco has a strong addictive nature in a huge number of health-conscious people. If you want to quit smoking and are determined, we would be privileged to be your partner and assist you in your efforts. Consult your local hygienist or Dr. Mai for key solutions and resources to help you quit smoking.