The goal of screenings is to monitor patients for the development of certain conditions. This is much the same when it comes to oral cancer screenings. Oral cancer is one variety of cancer that can be diagnosed by a dentist. At Schindler Dentistry, patients can visit the practice routinely for a screening appointment, or have their oral cancer screening performed during their biannual visit.
What is oral cancer?
Oral cancer is the development of cancer cells in the oral cavity. This may result in lesions or growths on the:
- Throat
- Tongue
- Gums
- Cheeks
- Soft tissues
Oral cancer is often visible and can be spotted during a dental examination. If the dentist is concerned that there may be cancer, she will take what is called a biopsy. This is a small sample of the skin cells that are sent to a laboratory for further testing and evaluation. If cancer cells are spotted, the dentist informs the patient and discusses the best treatment option.
Why are oral cancer screenings important?
Patients should always have a screening performed when they visit their dentist for their recall appointments. With routine evaluations, patients can rest easy that if cancer develops, it will be spotted in the earlier stages. This provides a higher probability of successful treatment. Patients who have growth or areas of concern within their mouth should call their doctor for a screening to be proactive about their oral healthcare.
If patients fail to spot oral cancer, it can rapidly spread not only through the mouth, but elsewhere in the body. Time is very important when it comes to successful intervention. Patients who have their smile evaluated every six months will have a much lesser risk of developing harmful or spreading cancers.
Schedule your oral cancer screening today
Take charge of your health and get started with an oral cancer screening at Schindler Dentistry today! Our practice provides a wide range of services, and quality routine care during recall appointments. We welcome patients in the Columbus, OH area to schedule their visit with Dr. Sharon E. Schindler by calling (614) 586-0609. Her practice, conveniently located at 775 Yard Street, Ste. 175, accepts new patients and families.