There’s more to a beautiful smile than just aesthetics. At Lady Bird Dental, situated at 3115, South Lamar Boulevard, Austin, we uphold the belief that a healthy mouth is the foundation for a beautiful smile. One crucial aspect of dental health that is often overlooked is oral cancer screening. It’s not just about improving your smile; it’s about saving lives.
The Importance of Oral Cancer Screenings
Oral cancer screenings are an essential preventive measure in dentistry. These screenings provide early detection of oral cancer, significantly increasing the chances of successful treatment and recovery. Without early detection, oral cancer can progress rapidly and become life-threatening.
Risk Factors for Oral Cancer
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Tobacco use, including cigarettes, cigars, pipes, chewing tobacco and snuff, among others.
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Heavy alcohol use.
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Previous diagnosis of oral cancer.
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Excessive sun exposure to your lips.
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A sexually transmitted virus called human papillomavirus (HPV).
Symptoms and Signs of Oral Cancer
Early signs of oral care often go unnoticed as they may not cause pain or discomfort. However, these signs may include:
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Persistent mouth sores that do not heal within two weeks.
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Unexplained bleeding in the mouth.
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Persistent sore throat or feeling that something is caught in the throat.
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Dramatic weight loss.
The Oral Cancer Screening Process
The process for an oral cancer screening is straightforward and non-invasive. It typically involves a visual examination of your mouth tissues and a physical check for any lumps or abnormalities in your neck, head or face area. In some cases, special dental tools or dyes might also be used to highlight abnormal cells in your mouth.
The Role of Dentists and Healthcare Professionals
Dentists play an integral role in oral cancer screening because they are uniquely positioned to detect abnormalities during routine dental check-ups before they become severe problems. If suspicious areas are found during the screening process, dentists will refer patients to specialists for further testing and treatment if necessary.
Dr. Dudeen Can Help with Your Oral Cancer Screenings
With years of experience and expertise in cosmetic dentistry along with his fervor for patient care Dr. Dudeen, at Lady Bird Dental, can help you maintain a healthy smile that goes beyond beauty. His approach involves understanding individual patient needs and providing personalized care plans that incorporate regular check-ups and screenings for early detection of potential issues such as oral cancer.
Dr. Dudeen is committed to providing comprehensive dental care that includes routine oral cancer screenings to ensure optimal oral health for his patients. His phone line at 512-805-7911 and website are always open for any inquiries about his services or to book an appointment.
At Lady Bird Dental, we don’t just enhance smiles; we safeguard lives by prioritizing your total oral health. Schedule your oral cancer screening today!