Your health is important, and it's essential to be proactive about protecting it. Every year, over 50,000 adults in the United States are diagnosed with oral or oropharyngeal cancer, and sadly, 10,000 of these individuals will lose their lives to this disease.
At Merkley Dental, your oral health and overall well-being are our top priorities. Although many people believe that oral cancer is rare, the truth is that it's more common than you might think. Unfortunately, early signs of oral cancer can often appear benign or mimic other issues that may go away on their own, leading many to remain unaware of a serious condition.
While maintaining a healthy lifestyle and avoiding harmful habits is crucial in minimizing your risk of developing oral cancer, regular dental checkups with comprehensive oral cancer screenings also play a significant role. In fact, it's often at these checkups that cases of oral cancer are first detected.
During your dental checkup visit with us, we perform a thorough screening for oral cancer. We carefully examine the tissues in and around the oral cavity and also palpate the jaw, neck, and under the chin for any signs of pathology or suspicious lumps.
While many symptoms can indicate benign issues, it's essential to be certain. If you notice any of the following changes in or around your oral cavity, please let us know:
Although the above signs and symptoms can represent benign and treatable issues, it's vital to be certain. At the office of Merkley Dental, we provide comprehensive care to support healthy, beautiful smiles and protect your overall well-being. To learn more about our services or schedule an appointment, give us a call today.
Your oral health is essential for maintaining a strong body and enjoying life to the fullest. By staying proactive and scheduling regular dental checkups with oral cancer screenings, you're taking important steps towards protecting your health and ensuring a bright future ahead.
