Oral Cancer Screenings
in Portland, OR
Part of caring for your oral health is taking preventive measures that encourage a healthy smile, including scheduling oral cancer screenings. Oral cancer screenings play a vital role in your oral and overall health. Oral cancer can be caused by age, genetics, or even prolonged exposure to sunlight. When caught early, there are likely more treatment options available. To schedule your Portland, OR, oral cancer screenings, please contact our front office!
What happens during an oral cancer screening?
An oral cancer screening provides Dr. White and our team the chance to observe and screen for cancer of the mouth. Oral cancer screenings can help discover dental cancer early, providing a high probability for more treatment options and successful treatment. Oral cancer screenings are visual and physical. We will thoroughly inspect your gums, tongue, cheeks, and throat for abnormalities, growths, or discoloration during the screening.
How do I know when I should be checked for oral cancer?
Routine oral cancer screenings are highly encouraged as oral cancer can go undetected long before it reaches an advanced stage. Sticking to oral cancer screenings and routine dental exams and cleanings are helpful ways to catch oral cancer early. However, warning signs like mouth pain or a sore mouth, colored patches in the mouth, and enlarged lymph nodes can prompt you to be screened sooner by an oral cancer dentist near you.
Is oral cancer hereditary?
While genetics can cause an increased risk for oral cancer, oral cancer is not solely hereditary. Lifestyle choices like tobacco use, excessive alcohol consumption, prolonged sun exposure, and lack of oral hygiene practice also play a significant role in developing dental cancer. Our team may recommend more frequent screenings if you are at higher risk of developing dental cancer due to family history or lifestyle choices.
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