Oral Cancer Detection: A Vital Part of Your Dental Checkup

Your oral health is more important than you might think. Did you know that over 50,000 adults in the United States will get diagnosed with oral or oropharyngeal cancer this year, with 10,000 fatalities? That's a lot of lives at stake! But don't worry, there are things you can do to protect yourself. Prevention and early detection are key when it comes to minimizing the risks of oral cancer.

Skilled care for your teeth and overall well-being

At Brookfield Smiles Inc., we believe in providing comprehensive care that supports healthy, beautiful smiles and protects your overall well-being. We understand that the signs and symptoms of oral cancer can sometimes seem innocent or go away by themselves. That's why it's so important to come in for regular dental checkups that include a thorough oral cancer screening.

While maintaining a healthy lifestyle and avoiding harmful habits are crucial steps in minimizing the risk of oral cancer, regular dental checkups play an equally significant role. In fact, many cases of oral cancer first get detected during a routine dental visit.

During your dental checkup at our office, we'll perform a comprehensive screening for oral cancer. We'll closely examine the tissues in and around your mouth, as well as palpate your jaw, neck, and under your chin for any suspicious lesions or lumps that could indicate pathology.

Being aware of the signs and symptoms

It's also essential to inform us if you've noticed any of the following tissue changes or lingering symptoms in or around your mouth:

• Mouth ulcers or lesions that don't seem to heal
• Unusual lumps or thickened areas
• Red or White patches
• Persistent swelling of unknown origin
• Painful swallowing, a painful tongue, ear or neck ache
• Constantly feeling like something is stuck in your throat
• Tenderness or numbness in mouth or lips
• Loose teeth
• Jaw pain or stiffness

Trusted care for healthy smiles and peace of mind

While the above signs and symptoms can sometimes represent benign and treatable issues, it's vital to be certain. At Brookfield Smiles Inc., we provide comprehensive care to support healthy, beautiful smiles and to protect your overall well-being. To learn more about our office and the many services we provide, give us a call today.

Remember, early detection is crucial when it comes to protecting yourself against oral cancer. Don't hesitate to schedule an appointment for a dental checkup and oral cancer screening at our office. We're here to help you maintain optimal oral health and overall well-being!