Oral Cancer Screenings in Bay City, TX
Have you ever had an oral cancer screening? If you’re unsure or can’t remember the last time you had one, it might be time for another screening. Our dentist in Bay City, TX offers oral cancer screenings near you.
Oral cancer screenings can help our dentist notice oral cancer early. By having regular oral cancer screenings, our dentist can ensure you are safe and healthy.
Who Needs an Oral Cancer Screening?
You might be wondering if everyone needs oral cancer screenings. Dentists recommend that people from age 20 to age 40 get oral cancer screenings every three years. If you’re over the age of 40, you should have oral cancer screenings annually.
In some cases, you might need an oral cancer screening more regularly. As always, talk to your dentist about your concerns and to determine if you need a screening.
What Does Oral Cancer Look Like?
Oral cancer often appears as a growth or sore in the mouth. It can also affect the lips, tongue, and cheeks.
What to Expect at Oral Cancer Screening
In many cases, our dentist will complete a basic oral cancer screening when you come in for biannual cleanings at Dr. Teeth Dental Care. Our dentist, Dr. Gade, will look for things like lumps and spots. These are signs of oral cancer.
When our dentist looks for signs of oral cancer, your lips, gums, and tongue will be examined. Our dentist will examine the insides of your cheeks, the roof of your mouth, and the back of your throat as well. This thorough exam will help our dentist to spot oral cancer.
A more in-depth exam may be needed. For this, our dentist will rinse your mouth with blue dye. Any abnormal cells will absorb the blue dye. Then, the dentist can look at those cells closely.
Why Are Oral Cancer Screenings Important?
When you get regular oral cancer screenings, the dentist is able to catch the cancer early. Then, the cancer and lesion can be addressed promptly for higher success rates.
If you think it’s time for an oral cancer screening, call Dr. Gade at Dr. Teeth Dental Care today.
FAQs
We suggest you should check your oral cancer screening once a year and have regular dental check-ups.
Our dentist will visually check your mouth and throat, feel for lumps, and may use special tools to look for abnormal cells.
Detecting oral cancer early can significantly increase the chances of successful treatment and survival.
If you see, many dental insurance plans cover oral cancer screenings. For more information, you can visit our website or consult your provider.
Look for sores, lumps, or discoloration that doesn't heal within two weeks, and report any changes to Dr Teeth Dental Care Bay City.
You can book an appointment by calling our office or scheduling online.