Oral cancer can develop in several parts of your mouth , including your lips, the tongue, your gums, the floor and roof of your mouth, your throat, and the inner lining of the cheeks.
Oral cancer can develop in several parts of your mouth, including your lips, the tongue, your gums, the floor and roof of your mouth, your throat, and the inner lining of the cheeks. Oral cancer is said to kill one person every hour in the United States. It is the sixth leading cancer among men and one of the few diseases that is still increasing among young adults. Like many other cancers, early detection of oral cancer is the absolute key to increasing your likelihood of survival. Studies have proven that in cases where oral cancer is detected in its early stages, the chance for a patient’s survival climbs to 90 percent.
Implant Dentistry and Periodontics will provide an oral cancer screening at every single checkup you have with us. We also offer a diverse range of important periodontal and dental implant services to help every patient. Our conscientious staff work together on a team goal of providing you with the best quality service for your overall oral health. We approach all dental procedures in a quiet, relaxing environment, and address your dental care as an important partner on your health care team. If you would like a checkup and an oral cancer screening to confirm any potential early detection, call our Indianapolis office at 317-574-0600 or our Fishers office at 317-842-2273 to schedule your appointment today.
Approximately 50,000 Americans are diagnosed with oral cancer every year. Of these diagnoses, nearly 10,000 will be end up being fatal. Originally the dental industry thought the risk factor was limited to smokers, but new research indicates that several other factors, such as alcohol consumption, genetic predisposition, ethnicity, and even gender can increase your risk for developing oral cancer. Given these alarming statistics, it is incredibly important to schedule regular oral cancer screenings, which will take place at your regular dental exams.
Oral Cancer Screening at Implant Dentistry and Periodontics
Oral cancer screening takes place during every routine checkup. Most of the screening is done through visual and hands-on methods where we carefully examine your mouth and throat for any signs of lesions. If detected, we will take biopsies of the suspicious growth or sore to determine if it is cancerous. If the biopsy returns from the lab positive, we will refer you to local cancer specialists, helping ensure you the most effective treatment possible.
Treatment Options
If the results of the biopsy confirm that you do indeed have oral cancer, there are several treatment options which we will discuss with you. Having an obvious tumor removed is one method for addressing oral cancer. Radiation therapy or chemotherapy in addition to radiation is another common method for treating oral cancer. Especially in cases where the affected area involves a significant amount of tissue, this approach will target the cancerous cells and protect your tissue that is healthy.
The best approach to treating your oral cancer is to develop a unique treatment plan with Implant Dentistry and Periodontics that is based on your oral health history, your current oral health issues, the severity of your case, and what type of post-treatment care will be most effective in helping you recover and minimize your chances for developing any further issues.
At Implant Dentistry and Periodontics, we offer a wide range of periodontal and dental implant services. Our caring and compassionate team has one collective priority and that is your smile.
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Preventing Oral Cancer
Before we propose self-exams at home, it is also strongly suggested that you have regular checkups every six months. This is important for all facets of your oral hygiene, but as you can see it also includes oral cancer screening. You can practice monthly self-exams. If you are not doing so now, please follow these step-by-step instructions.
- If applicable, remove your dentures or other orthodontic appliances.
- Tilt your head to examine the roof of your mouth in the mirror.
- Examine your gums and feel them to see if there are any abnormalities or new growths.
- Use your index fingers to stretch out your cheeks. As you do this, closely observe the surrounding teeth and gums to look again if there are any abnormalities or new growths.
- Massage or prod your jaw and/or neck to see if there are any signs of enlarged glands or lumps.
In addition to this self-exam, be sure to contact Implant Dentistry and Periodontics if you are experiencing or notice any of the following for a prolonged period:
- Chronic cough, hoarseness, or sore throat
- Sores that are bleeding or do not heal
- Difficulty swallowing
- Red and white patches
- Lumps and/or masses that suddenly develop in your neck
If you have experienced any suspicious changes to your oral health, it is quite critical that you schedule an appointment with Implant Dentistry and Periodontics as soon as possible. We understand the common urge to ignore issues until they go away but addressing certain issues early can sure help prevent serious issues from developing.
Earning your Trust with High Quality Periodontal Care
When you schedule an oral cancer screening with our thorough staff at Implant Dentistry and Periodontics, you will be impressed with the high degree of our professionalism and that we are a team that has the most advanced dental technology at our disposal in our clinic. We are conscientious because we understand exactly how unique and different each patient is. We are detail conscious when developing your personalized treatments, to ensure success that works for your desires and budget. Our entire team focuses on putting value back into your undervalued personal asset, your healthy smile, so every procedure we perform for you is with only your best interests and oral health in mind.
At Implant Dentistry and Periodontics, our clinic has a peaceful setting, and we want you to be comfortable with our abilities and services. Scheduling an appointment for a potential occlusal or bite adjustment is a serious first step towards being proactive in your oral health and regaining your healthy smile. To schedule an appointment, call our Indianapolis office, 8801 North Meridian St., Suite 103, Indianapolis, at 317-574-0600 or our Fishers office, 9885 E. 116th St, Suite 300, Fishers, at 317-842-2273.