Early Detection For Healthy Smiles
Oral cancer is one of the most dangerous types of cancer. While it’s easy to treat, and the prognosis is good if it’s caught early, it can be very hard to recognize unless you receive regular oral cancer screenings from an experienced professional like Dr. Bickel. At Redmond Art of Dentistry, Dr. Bickel uses the latest identification techniques and intraoral camera technology to identify any concerning signs of oral cancer to ensure that you and your smile are healthy.
What To Expect
- Dr. Bickel will use advanced digital imaging equipment to get a detailed view of the inside of your mouth.
- He will look for lesions, lumps and abnormalities in tissue, discolored patches of oral tissue, and any other abnormalities in your oral tissue, tongue, and lips.
- He may ask whether you’ve experienced any symptoms which could indicate a potential case of oral cancer.
- If any potential signs of oral cancer are recognized, Dr. Bickel will refer you to a specialist who will perform a more detailed analysis.
What Is Oral Cancer Screening Like?
Oral cancer screenings at Redmond Art of Dentistry are fast and efficient, usually taking only a few minutes. They are typically performed as part of your regular six-month oral exam and teeth cleaning.
During your screening, Dr. Bickel will use advanced digital imaging equipment to get a detailed view of the inside of your mouth. He will look for lesions, lumps and abnormalities in tissue, discolored patches of oral tissue, and any other abnormalities in your oral tissue, tongue, and lips. He may also ask you whether you’ve experienced any symptoms which could indicate a potential case of oral cancer, such as:
- Numbness of the mouth
- A recurring sore throat or a lump in the throat
- Chronic hoarseness
If any potential signs of oral cancer are recognized, Dr. Bickel will refer you to a specialist, who will perform a more detailed analysis, to ensure that you get an accurate diagnosis.
The Benefits Of Early Cancer Detection And Oral Cancer Screenings
Oral cancer is very hard to identify on your own. Often, once the symptoms become obvious, the cancer has already progressed to Stage III or IV, resulting in a poor prognosis. Getting an oral cancer screening allows for peace of mind. If you are healthy, then there is no need to worry about oral cancer. And, if there are symptoms of oral cancer, you can see a specialist to treat the issue quickly, resulting in a better overall outcome for your case.
When Do I Need To Have An Oral Cancer Screening?
Oral cancer screenings are typically recommended for individuals who are over 40 years of age. After the age of 40, you should have an oral cancer screening every year. However, younger individuals can also benefit from oral cancer screenings, especially if they conform to known risk factors, such as:
- Use of any kind of tobacco product (cigars, cigarettes, chewing tobacco, snus, etc.)
- Heavy use of alcohol
- Poor overall levels of oral hygiene
- A history of chronic sun exposure (outdoor work, tanning, etc.)
- Weak immune system due to an autoimmune disorder
- HPV (Human Papillomavirus) infection
Don’t Wait – Get Screened Today!
Oral cancer screenings will give you peace of mind and ensure that you and your mouth stay healthy. At Redmond Art of Dentistry, Dr. Bickel will provide you with a comprehensive oral exam, including x-rays and digital imaging, and an oral cancer screening, to ensure that your mouth is healthy and cancer-free. To get started and schedule your consultation, contact us today!
