When you visit your Brentwood, TN, dentist to get your teeth cleaned, you may not even realize they are conducting an oral cancer screening along with your dental cleaning. Sadly, tens of thousands of people are diagnosed with oral cancer each year, and thousands die from it each year. That’s why the dental team of Haley E. Schmitt takes oral cancer screenings very seriously. Not only do they want to perform this crucial screening when you visit their office twice a year, but they want you to know how to recognize the signs for yourself.
How to Recognize Oral Cancer
If you are between dental visits and you notice a white or red spot or sore in your mouth, it’s best to call your dentist to be on the safe side, as this is the most common indicator of oral cancer. However, often, these types of spots are completely harmless. If you notice any of the following symptoms in your mouth, contact our dental office to schedule an appointment:
- A sore that doesn’t seem to heal
- A sore that bleeds
- A crusty or rough area
- A lump or hard spot
- Pain, numbness, or tenderness
- Trouble chewing or swallowing
- Difficulty moving your tongue or jaw
Risk Factors for Oral Cancer
There are things you can do to decrease your chances of getting oral cancer in the first place. If possible, you should avoid the following:
- Smoking cigarettes, cigars, or pipes
- Using smokeless tobacco
- Drinking alcohol in excess
What Can You Do?
The most important thing you can do to detect oral cancer is to make and keep regular dental appointments in Brentwood. When you visit your dentist every six months for an oral examination and cleaning, they will conduct an oral cancer screening by looking for suspicious spots or lumps in any of the following areas:
- Inside your cheeks
- On the roof of your mouth
- Under your tongue
- On your head or neck
Do You Need a Dentist in Brentwood, TN?
If so, the dental team of Haley E. Schmitt, DDS Cosmetic & Family Dentistry, is ready to help! We want to help you achieve the best oral health possible through regular checkups and cleanings. Call us at (615) 373-0883 for more information or to schedule an appointment.
We look forward to hearing from you.