Oral cancer screening

Oral Cancer Screening For Patients Near The Park- Dublin18

Oral cancer is an increasingly prevalent form of cancer; research suggests that the number of cases has almost doubled in the last decade alone and alarmingly, survival rates have stalled, as many cases are diagnosed at an advanced stage.

Oral cancer affects the mouth, tongue or throat; it is also known as mouth cancer. Oral cancer has become increasingly common among young people in the last decade and more than 300 cases are diagnosed in Ireland every year.

What causes oral cancer?

There are many risk factors for oral cancer; they include smoking, drinking alcohol, a poor diet and exposure to the human papilloma virus (HPV). People who smoke and drink are up to 30 times more likely to develop oral cancer than non-smokers who drink in moderation.

Symptoms of oral cancer

Symptoms of oral cancer include red or white patches in the mouth or throat, abnormal swelling or lumps in the mouth or throat, which may cause difficulty with swallowing and slow-healing sores or ulcers.

Unfortunately, many people are unaware of the warning signs and symptoms of oral cancer and this means that they do not seek help from their doctor or dentist; as the disease progresses, the chances of survival decrease. Regular check-ups are very important because they enable dentists to look for the early warning signs of oral cancer; if there are symptoms, treatment can be arranged as early as possible, which increases the chance of survival.

Preventing oral cancer

It may be impossible to prevent oral cancer, but there are things you can do to reduce your risk of developing the condition considerably. Giving up smoking has a range of benefits for your oral and general health and we can offer advice and support to help you quit. Limiting alcohol intake will also reduce your risk of oral cancer, as well as a host of other illnesses, including liver disease and high blood pressure. Aim to get your 5 a day every day and avoid processed, fatty and sugary foods. HPV has emerged as a major risk factor for oral cancer, especially among younger people, so take care to have safe sex.

Regular dental checks are essential; check-ups are very quick and straight-forward, but they can save lives; we recommend attending a check-up every 6 months at Dublin18 Dental Care near The Park- Dublin18.

Importance of Oral Cancer Screenings at Dublin18 Dental Care for People near Goatstown

Oral cancer is becoming increasingly common and oral cancer screenings are really important for ensuring cases are diagnosed at an early stage when cancer is more treatable. Unfortunately, research shows that most cases are diagnosed at an advanced stage, as many people are unaware of the symptoms and causes and neglect regular check-ups. This means that survival rates have remained at the same level for the last 5 years. Here at Dublin18 Dental Care near Goatstown we are committed to the fight against oral cancer, actively encouraging all of our patients to attend regular check-ups and oral cancer screenings.

About oral cancer

This is a form of cancer that affects the mouth, tongue or throat. Research shows that this form of cancer has become much more common over the last ten years, with the number of cases almost doubling.

Risk factors include smoking, drinking alcohol, a poor diet and exposure to the human papilloma virus (HPV), which is a sexually transmitted infection.

Symptoms of oral cancer include red or white patches in the mouth, abnormal lumps or swelling in the mouth or throat, and ulcers that take a long time (more than 2 weeks) to heal. It is extremely important to see your dentist or doctor if you experience any of these symptoms, as early diagnosis and treatment can improve the chances of survival by up to 90 per cent.

What does an oral cancer screening involve?

The screening process is vital for improving survival rates and only takes a few minutes. The actually screening test is similar to a quick check-up. There is absolutely no pain involved and your dentist will simply check for relevant symptoms and changes in your mouth. If your dentist suspects that there may be warning signs they will refer you for further tests.

Screening is vital because it detects cases of cancer at an early stage. If the condition is diagnosed at an early stage this will mean that patients can receive treatment when is more likely to be effective.

If you have any questions about oral cancer or if simply want to find out more about oral cancer screenings, do not hesitate to give us a call.

Oral Cancer Screenings at Dublin18 Dental Care is a Must for Patients from Dundrum

Oral cancer does not generate the same headlines as some other forms of the disease, such as lung cancer or breast cancer, and many people are under the misapprehension that because it does not affect any of the vital organs it is not as deadly. This could not be further from the truth. In fact, oral cancer – which covers cancers of the mouth and throat – is one of the most dangerous types of the disease, with early detection and treatment essential if the patient is to survive.

Part of a routine check-up at Dublin18 Dental Care for clients from Dundrum and neighbouring areas includes a check for any signs of oral cancer. Often these signs can be very small and subtle with no symptoms that the patient is able to notice. This is just yet one more reason why attending regular check-ups at Dublin18 Dental Care is so important. Yes, it might save a few of your teeth but it could also save your life.

Research has found that there are some things that can increase a person’s risk of developing oral cancer; smoking and drinking damage the cells in the mouth leaving them open to attack from the condition while unprotected sexual contact can also be a factor.

Early symptoms are often mistaken for general issues with oral health; bleeding from the mouth or gums, ulcers and a general feeling of soreness. If you experience any of these symptoms, it would be wise to make an appointment with Dublin18 Dental Care to check if there is anything to worry about. Early detection is so important and you shouldn’t worry that you are wasting anyone’s time. Throat cancer, the most serious of the oral cancers, has a survival rate of 90% if the disease is found and treated early; this drops to just 50% if it is not discovered for several months.

Speak to one of the dental staff at Dublin18 Dental Care today if you have any questions or concerns about oral cancer. We provide free oral cancer screening as part of your 13 point dental health check. This is important for all patients including patients with full dentures.