The importance of regular screenings and knowing the symptoms of oral cancer

At Eagle Family Dental in Arlington, Washington, our expert team of dental professionals is committed to helping you maintain the perfect smile. We all know that regular brushing, flossing, and professional dental cleanings are essential in preventing issues like gum disease and tooth decay. However, another crucial factor to your oral well-being is the detection and prevention of oral cancer. This condition can affect anyone at any age and requires an evaluation to get a definitive diagnosis and discuss possible treatment options. Let’s look at some frequently asked questions about oral cancer and what to expect.

What is oral cancer?

Oral cancer is described by our dental team as any cancer that originates in the mouth, including the tongue, cheeks, and throat. Like all types of cancer that can form in the human body, this can spread and become a severe health risk. It is crucial that our patients get an early diagnosis and seek treatment as soon as possible. That is why we emphasize the regularity of oral cancer screenings with your dental team at Eagle Family Dental, which significantly improves the survival rate if detected and treated in the early phases.

What are some possible causes of oral cancer, and what puts someone at risk for developing it?

Oral cancer can be triggered by various factors. Although heavy smoking and alcohol consumption are common risk factors, even non-smokers or occasional drinkers can be affected. Sometimes, it might be due to age-related cellular changes or a patient’s genetic predisposition, which is why we always advise regular screenings to check for any signs of abnormalities.

What are some of the symptoms of oral cancer in the mouth to look for and talk to my dentist about?

The symptoms associated with oral cancer can vary from patient to patient, as well as severity, but some prevalent signs that it may present include the following concerns:

  •  Mouth or throat lumps.

  • Persistent sores.

  • Discomfort while swallowing.

  • Chronic bad breath and hoarseness.

If these symptoms persist for more than a few weeks, it is critical that you request an appointment at Eagle Family Dental to discuss your concerns with our dental team and undergo an oral cancer screening.

Act today and schedule an oral cancer screening with our Arlington, Washington, area team of professionals

At Eagle Family Dental, all of our experienced dentists believe in delivering top-notch personalized care to each and every patient who comes into our practice. If you notice any of the symptoms of oral cancer or need an oral cancer screening, do not hesitate to contact our Arlington, WA team today at (360) 322-1251. We are conveniently located at 20302 77th Avenue NE, and we welcome patients from the surrounding communities of Marysville, Stanwood, Smokey Point, Camano Island, Lake Stevens, Granite Falls, and Everett, WA.