The importance of a regular oral cancer exam with a Century City, CA dentist
The American Cancer Society reports that approximately 30,000 individuals are diagnosed with oral cancer each year and over 23% of these result in death. Fortunately, oral cancer is a condition that can be easily diagnosed with the help of a dentist performing annual oral cancer examinations for patients during their routine appointments. Oral cancer can be effectively treated when it is caught in the initial stages. Dr. Meredith Levine and her team in Century City, CA, provide oral cancer exams for new and returning patients.
What are the causes of oral cancer?
There is no direct link between oral cancer and certain conditions, but there are concerns for some patients who may have risk factors that can increase their chances of developing oral cancer. For example, many cases are related to habits such as tobacco or alcohol use. Patients who have HPV infections may also be at a higher risk of developing this condition than those who do not. By understanding your risk and speaking with a professional dentist, you can obtain the knowledge you need to ensure you are healthy and safe from high cancer risks.
What are the early signs of oral cancer?
Many patients have questions about the signs and symptoms of oral cancer, including questions such as, what does oral cancer look like? It can be difficult to tell sometimes, even for a dentist, which is why a biopsy may be taken concerning growths or areas of the mouth. Some of the more common symptoms or signs of oral cancer may include:
- Loose teeth
- Mouth or ear pain
- Growth/lump in the mouth
- Red or white patches inside the mouth
- Sores that don’t heal
- Difficulty swallowing or pain while swallowing
Why are oral cancer screenings important?
Because of the high death risk of oral cancer, patients must have routine cancer screenings to catch oral cancer in the earliest stages. The sooner the condition is detected, the more likely it is to be treated without death.
Are you overdue for an oral cancer screening?
Contact Dr. Meredith Levine and her team in Century City, CA, to discuss your options. The practice is located at 2080 Century Park East, Suite #1516, and can be reached at (424) 358-3811.