Oral Cancer Screenings in Colonia, NJ
Oral cancer is something that should be taken very seriously. This is why oral cancer screenings near you are important. If you have not had an oral cancer screening, it may be time for you to get one. Our dentists in Colonia, NJ offer oral cancer screenings.
Oral cancer is an abnormal and malignant growth in the mouth that can be anywhere, including around the tongue, the cheeks, the floor of the mouth, the gums, or the back of the throat. These abnormal growths or “lesions” may be white or red, they may be raised or flat, and they may bleed or have discomfort. Many times, oral cancer lesions can be asymptomatic.
Who Are Oral Cancer Screenings for?
If you have not had an oral cancer screening, you may be wondering if you need one. It’s recommended that people from age 20 to age 40 have an oral cancer screening every three years. People over the age of 40 should have oral cancer screenings every year.
The oral cancer risk of a patient can increase due to tobacco use, alcohol use, and/or a possible history of certain strains of HPV (Human Papillomavirus).
It’s always best to listen to the recommendations of our dentists. You may need more regular screenings. This may be advised if you are at a higher risk of oral cancer. Talk to our dentists about any concerns you might have.
What Happens at an Oral Cancer Screening?
You may not have to schedule an appointment for an oral cancer screening, as screenings are sometimes done at biannual cleanings. Talk to our dentists at Colonia Dental Associates to ensure you get an oral cancer screening.
During a screening, our dentists will look for lumps, spots, and other signs of oral cancer. The examination covers your lips, gums, tongue, insides of your cheeks, roof of your mouth, and the back of your throat. Our general dentists may refer patients for a biopsy for any suspicious areas of concern.
Why Do You Need Oral Cancer Screenings?
With all types of cancer, early detection is key. This allows the dentist or doctor to catch the cancer early.
With oral cancer, our dentists can remove the cancer and lesions to ensure you stay healthy. This leads to high success rates.
To schedule an oral cancer screening near you, call Colonia Dental Associates today.
We serve residents of Colonia, NJ, as well as the surrounding areas of Avenel, Carteret, Clark, Edison, Fords, Iselin, Linden, Piscataway, Port Reading, Metuchen, Rahway, Sewaren, and South Plainfield.
FAQ's
An oral cancer screening is a swift and painless examination where a dentist checks your mouth, tongue, gums, and throat for signs of cancer or precancerous conditions.
Early spotting of oral cancer increases the chances of successful treatment. Regular screenings help identify abnormalities before they develop into more serious conditions.
Everyone should have routine oral cancer screenings, especially those who use tobacco, drink alcohol frequently, have a history of HPV, or have a family history of cancer.
Most dentists recommend an annual screening, but individuals with higher risk factors may need more timely evaluations.
Your dentist will do an inspection of your mouth, lips, and throat for unusual sores, lumps, or discoloration. In some cases, special lights or dyes may be used to detect abnormalities.
No, the procedure is non-invasive and completely painless. It involves a visual examination and sometimes a gentle touch to feel for lumps or abnormalities.
Common signs include persistent mouth sores, red or white patches, difficulty swallowing, chronic hoarseness, or a lump in the neck or mouth.
The screening typically gets over in just a few minutes during your regular dental check-up.
If abnormalities are detected, your dentist may recommend further tests, such as a biopsy, or refer you to a specialist for a more detailed examination.
