The Importance of Early Detection
Did you know that the benefits of oral cancer screenings can be life-saving? This simple yet powerful examination plays a crucial role in detecting oral cancer in its early stages, significantly improving the chances of successful treatment and recovery. If you’re overdue for a visit to the dentist, contact our Seattle dental office today! We include oral cancer screenings during your routine checkups.
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Oral Cancer Screening Benefits
Improved prognosis
Detecting oral cancer in its early stages significantly increases the likelihood of successful treatment and recovery, reducing the chances of the disease developing further. Recognizing oral cancers in their early development can enhance prognosis. Patients who develop oral cancer and are diagnosed in its early stages often have higher success rates with treatment, which can positively affect their overall well-being and quality of life.
Non-Invasive Exam
During your dental visit, our downtown Seattle dentist will check for red or white patches, mouth sores, and other abnormalities that could indicate cancer. The examination includes checking the lips, gums, tongue, cheek lining, and even the throat and neck for lumps or irregularities. It’s a non-invasive examination that typically takes around five minutes.
Prevention
Oral cancer screenings can help identify precancerous conditions in the mouth that could lead to oral cancer. This leads to the removal of the abnormal tissues, preventing oral cancer from forming and spreading.
Lower Treatment Costs
Early detection and treatment can reduce the need for extensive and more expensive treatments that might be necessary for advanced stages of cancer. Earlier diagnosis may lead to quicker and less expensive treatment options.
Increased treatment options
Early recognition of mouth cancer offers a broader selection of treatment alternatives, raising the probability of positive outcomes. The treatment options available for oral cancers include:
- Surgery
- Radiation therapy
- Chemotherapy
- Targeted therapy
- Immunotherapy
When oral cancer is identified early, healthcare professionals can quickly establish the most effective treatment strategy. This prompt action enhances the probability of success and reduces potential complications.
Reduced mortality rates
Regular oral cancer screenings have a positive impact on mortality rates, as they enable the detection of the disease in its early stages when it’s more treatable. Generally, the 5-year survival rate for oral cancer is approximately 68%, with survival rates significantly lower for certain demographic groups. Regular oral cancer screenings serve as a critical preventive measure.
Frequently Asked Questions
Tongue squamous cell carcinoma is the most aggressive type of oral cancer, requiring a treatment plan consisting of both radiotherapy and chemotherapy in addition to surgical removal of the tumor.
Look out for mouth sores that easily bleed and don’t heal, loose teeth, and red or white patches on the tonsils, gums, tongue, or mouth lining as these are common signs of Stage 1 oral cancer.
Prioritize Your Health
By prioritizing oral cancer screenings you can make great strides in the fight against oral cancer and potentially save your life. Schedule your oral cancer screening today by calling our Seattle dentist at (206) 682-3888.