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Oral Cancer Screenings in Danbury, CT
Oral cancer, also called cancer of the mouth, is any cancer that affects the oral cavity tissues. When detected early, oral cancer is treatable via chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and surgery. Danbury Smiles – George L. Landress D.D.S.,M.A.G.D., D.A.B.D.S.M. recommends undergoing oral cancer screenings in Danbury, CT at least once every year. You can combine oral cancer screening with your bi-annual dental exams for a comprehensive oral health evaluation.
If you are at a heightened risk of developing oral cancer, for instance, if you have a family history of the same or are a heavy smoker, our dentist near you may recommend more frequent screenings.
Oral Cancer Causes and Symptoms
Like other cancers, oral cancer develops when the cells in the mouth mutate or change abnormally. This abnormal growth may be triggered by excessive tobacco use, heavy alcohol consumption, excessive exposure to the sun, exposure to the human papillomavirus (HPV), and a weakened immune system.
Common symptoms of oral cancer include:
- Persistent lip or mouth sores
- White or red patches inside the mouth
- Pain or difficulty when chewing or swallowing
- Loose teeth
- Growths or lumps inside the mouth
- Mouth and ear pain
Oral cancer screenings near you focus on identifying the symptoms above.
We use Velscope to help identify any abnormalities. Please click here to learn more about Velscope. If you’re experiencing any of these worrisome signs, it’s time to schedule an oral cancer screening with Dr. Landress.
What to Expect
Ideally, it’s preferable if you didn’t wait until you’re showing symptoms to get checked for oral cancer. Dr. Landress encourages patients to come in regularly for oral cancer screenings. This way, the disease can be caught when it’s still in its earliest stages. It’s worth noting that while oral cancer screenings can reasonably identify signs of oral cancer, the screenings aren’t diagnostic. Only a biopsy can determine with absoluteness if you have oral cancer or not.
As such, our dentist in Danbury, CT will first visually inspect your oral cavity to check for apparent signs of cancer. If the symptoms are present, the dentist refers you for a biopsy test. If the biopsy confirms cancerous conditions, then you’ll get started on the appropriate treatment.
Contact Danbury Smiles – George L. Landress D.D.S.,M.A.G.D., D.A.B.D.S.M today if you’re looking for a patient-centered and family-oriented dental practice that offers oral cancer screenings in Danbury, CT.
