Oral Cancer Screenings
Orthodontist in Rancho Cucamonga
In the United States alone, one adult dies every hour from oral cancers. When oral cancers are identified in the initial stages, treatment can begin more quickly. In initial stages, treatment has a higher rate of success and is less invasive. In more advanced stages, oral cancers are more likely to have spread to other areas and need complex treatment.
Our team of doctors recommend having an oral cancer screening at least once each year. Regular screenings can help ensure early detection of any potential cancers.
During your child’s oral cancer screening, Our team of doctors will check for any abnormalities. We will closely examine your child’s mouth, throat, lips, gums, and tongue. Let us know about any potential symptoms they have experienced, including:
- Pain or difficulty with speaking, swallowing, or moving their jaw or tongue
- A sensation that something is caught in the back of your child’s throat
- Sore throat with no other sinus symptoms
- Lumps or swellings in or around your child’s mouth
- Drastic weight loss
- White or red patches in your child’s mouth
- Mouth sores that do not heal
- Unexplained ear pain
- Unexplained bleeding in your child’s mouth
If your child has experienced any of these symptoms for more than a week without improvement, call us immediately for an appointment.
Anyone may develop oral cancer, but there are certain factors that can increase your child’s risks. Some of the most common include:
- Being male (men are more likely to develop oral cancer than women)
- Use of tobacco in any form (6 times more likely)
- Genetic predisposition for oral cancers
- Excessive or prolonged exposure to sun
- Unhealthy diet
- Excessive consumption of alcoholic beverages
- Having gastro-esophageal reflux disease (GERD)
For more information on oral cancer screenings or to schedule an appointment, contact Sweet Tooth.
