Oral cancer is a valid concern with over fifty thousand occurrences every year. According to the National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research, this instance mostly happens in males over the age of 40. For this reason, it’s extremely important to schedule regular exams to find the signs early while it’s still easily treatable. But do dentists in Fontana do oral cancer screenings? You’ll be glad to know that as a Fontana resident, you definitely have options.
Oral Cancer Explained
What is oral cancer, and how is it so harmful? Oral cancers can form in practically every area of the mouth and can be a danger to your health and wellbeing if not taken care of in a timely manner. In fact, untreated oral cancer can be deadly if it becomes bad enough. This is why professional dentists in Fontana proudly offer oral cancer screenings for those who need it.
How Does it Happen?
Nearly all oral cancers stem from carelessness and neglect of proper dental hygiene. Common causes include:
- Frequent use of tobacco
- Excessive alcohol consumption
- Prolonged exposure to the sun
- Sexual transmission leading to infections
- Aging past forty years old
- A family history of oral cancer
Although age and hereditary reasons for developing oral cancer are out of your control, maintaining proper hygiene and monitoring your actions could help prevent you from being diagnosed.
Where Does it Happen?
Oral cancer is a vague term that encompasses such a vast area. Sections of the oral cavity that can be affected include the mouth, jaw, and tongue. These are the most common parts that typically experience signs of oral cancer, and so dentists in Fontana pay close attention to them during exams.
| Types of Oral Cancer |
|
● Squamous cell carcinoma ● Verrucous carcinoma ● Melanoma ● Buccal mucosa cancer ● Adenoid cystic carcinoma ● Mucoepidermoid carcinoma ● Polymorphous low-grade adenocarcinoma ● Lymphoma ● Lip cancer ● Jaw cancer ● Tongue cancer ● Other mouth cancers |
Anyone who is not in the medical field is not expected to know the details of any of these conditions (much less pronounce them) which is why it’s always best to get a professional examination done by a qualified professional. They will be able to help you narrow down the symptoms and causes for a customized treatment plan in combating your condition before it gets too severe.
Recognizing the Signs of Oral Cancer
The easiest way to catch signs of oral cancer is through regular dental exams and screenings with a qualified dentist, but you may also feel some sensations that commonly occur in those who develop various types of cancer in the mouth. Prevalent symptoms that may bother you include:
- Patches or lumps in the mouth
- Trouble with moving the jaw or tongue
- Swelling in the jaw
- Soreness in the mouth, throat, or lip
- Numbness of the tongue
- Pain in the ear
If you’re experiencing any of these painful or uncomfortable sensations, make an appointment with your dentist in Fontana immediately. Oral cancer isn’t something to be slept on since it can quickly spread and worsen until it becomes more difficult (or even impossible) to treat effectively.
Responding to Sypmtoms of Oral Cancer
It can be frightening to notice any of the symptoms that correlate with oral cancer, but you may still have a chance at combating it effectively. Don’t delay in getting a proper oral exam from a licensed professional! It helps to know what to expect when you come in for your screening and what treatment methods for oral cancer could be recommended for you.
Getting an Oral Cancer Screening
What happens during an oral cancer screening? Since the biggest culprits are the mouth, tongue, and jaw, your dentist will carefully exam those areas first and foremost. They’ll take a close look at your gum health, any abnormalities with the tongue, the state of your cheek lining, and the condition of your lips. They’ll specifically check for any patches (these could be white or red), sores, or lumps. These lumps could also form in the throat and neck. It’s crucial to get a very thorough exam so nothing gets overlooked. If you live in Fontana, there are many expert dentists in the area that are skilled and experienced in reliable and accurate oral cancer screenings for the sake of your overall health.
Treatment Options
If your dentist confirms the development of oral cancer after your screening, they will likely recommend the best course of action for you. These suggestions may include radiation therapy, chemotherapy, surgery, or a combination of all three if necessary. For a more accurate consultation, your dentist may even ask you to undergo a biopsy for a clearer examination. A biopsy usually involves the collection of cells from the affected area in order to identify the exact cause of your pain and discomfort. If your biopsy reveals your exact condition, it will become that much easier to treat.
| Procedure | Details |
| Chemotherapy |
● Contains anti-cancer properties ● Can be administered through the mouth or vein ● Consists of multiple sessions ● Can be used before or after surgery |
| Radiation therapy |
● Involves high-energy beams to destroy or slow down cancer cells ● Can be used before or after surgery |
| Biopsy |
● May require the use of anesthesia ● Extracts a cell sample of the affected area ● Able to accurate identify a specific condition |
Oral Cancer Screenting in Fortana
Finding the best dentist for oral cancer screenings in Fontana is as simple as making an appointment with Southridge Dental Group. State-of-the-art technology, the most current practices, and experts with decades of experience adds up to quality service that you can trust. Cancer of any variety is no easy plight which is why the friendly staff is there to help you every step of the way. Call 909-822-9090 today to set an appointment for a professional dental exam in Fontana. Exams at Southridge Dental Group are all-encompassing so you can find out if you have any other conditions that require special attention all in one go! Dental cleanings and examinations can be done in the same visit for your convenience by saving you time.