Golden, CO area patients are often on top of their dental visits. They know they should visit when problems arise, as well as every six months for a cleaning and examination. But what about oral cancer screenings? Not every dental provider offers them, but our team of professionals encourage patients to understand their importance and have them done during routine visits to the office.
What is oral cancer?
Cancer can develop anywhere inside or outside of the body. Oral cancer is one type of cancer that can be easily detected because it is visible, similar to skin cancer. By screening for oral cancer on a regular basis, patients can rest easy that they are being proactive about their overall health and wellness. If caught early enough, many cases of oral cancer can be treated before they become a larger, more concerning problem.
How do I detect oral cancer?
The best way to ensure you are free from oral cancer is to undergo routine screenings with a dental professional. Dentists know what signs to look for that may indicate a problem such as cancer and are trained to provide biopsies and refer patients to appropriate health care professionals if cancer is found. Our team will evaluate the smile on a regular basis to see if areas of concern may be an indication of cancer.
Do I need a biopsy?
Any time a dentist sees an area of concern that may be indicative of cancerous cells, they will perform a biopsy. This is the removal of a small portion of the tissues in the mouth to send off to a laboratory for evaluation. If cancerous cells are found, patients then work with their dentist to develop an appropriate treatment plan. Most patients are referred to an oncologist for further treatment to address the problem as soon as possible.
Oral cancer screenings are necessary and encouraged for all of our patients
At our practice, patients in and around the community of Golden, CO are welcome to book an appointment to learn more about oral cancer screenings and their importance. Our staff is located at 1218 Arapahoe Street. Patients can all (303) 277-9600 to schedule their appointment and discuss the services available in our facility.