Your dental visits should give you more than just a clean smile—they should also help protect your overall health. That’s why many people looking for a “dentist near me” appreciate that Blauer Family Dental in Spearfish, SD includes oral cancer screenings in every exam. The process is quick, comfortable, and designed to give you confidence about your health. Schedule your appointment today and take charge of your future.
Why Oral Cancer Screenings Are Essential For Early Detection
The greatest benefit of screenings is peace of mind—knowing that problems can be found early when they are easiest to treat. By taking just a few minutes, your dentist helps reduce the chances of needing complicated care later. Early action leads to better outcomes and a healthier future.
- Improves treatment success: Detecting oral cancer in the earliest stage greatly increases the likelihood of effective treatment.
- Reduces need for complex treatment: Early care often avoids surgeries or more invasive medical procedures.
- Supports long-term wellness: Protects your oral health while also lowering risks for related overall health issues.
- Builds confidence: Knowing your dentist is actively monitoring your health helps you feel secure at every check-up.
Signs & Symptoms Of Oral Cancer You Shouldn’t Ignore
The biggest benefit of knowing the warning signs is that you can act quickly, which saves time, money, and worry. Recognizing when something seems unusual gives you control and helps you avoid surprises at your next appointment. Small changes may mean big protection.
- Persistent sores: Open areas or ulcers in the mouth that last longer than two weeks without healing.
- Unusual lumps or thickening: Raised areas, bumps, or hardened tissue along the gums, tongue, or cheeks.
- Red or white patches: Spots of discoloration that don’t clear up and may slowly spread.
- Difficulty swallowing: Discomfort or challenges with chewing, speaking, or swallowing that continue over time.
How Dentists Detect Oral Cancer In Routine Exams
The benefit of screenings during your exam is that they are fast, painless, and cost you nothing extra. Your dentist looks carefully at your mouth and gently feels for anything out of the ordinary while you stay comfortable in the chair. It’s a simple process that provides big value.
- Visual inspection: Checking the lips, tongue, cheeks, and throat for unusual spots or patches.
- Palpation: Gently pressing along the neck and inside the mouth to identify swelling, lumps, or firmness.
- Medical history review: Asking about lifestyle choices or family history that may raise your risk level.
- Referral for testing: If something is suspicious, your dentist may recommend a biopsy or specialist evaluation.
Risk Factors For Oral Cancer & How To Reduce Them
The benefit of understanding your risks is knowing what you can change to protect your health. Making adjustments to your habits not only lowers your chances of oral cancer but also improves your overall wellness. Even if risks apply, regular screenings add extra peace of mind.
- Tobacco use: Cigarettes, cigars, pipes, and chewing tobacco all increase oral cancer risk significantly.
- Alcohol consumption: Consistent heavy drinking raises the likelihood of developing cancer in the mouth and throat.
- Sun exposure: Extended time outdoors without lip protection increases the chance of lip cancer.
- HPV infection: Certain strains of HPV are known to contribute to oral cancers and should be monitored closely.
What Happens If Your Oral Cancer Screening Is Positive?
The benefit of screenings is that they guide your next steps so you’re never left wondering what to do. A positive screening doesn’t always mean cancer, but it ensures you get answers quickly and confidently. You’ll know your dentist is by your side.
- Additional testing: A biopsy or advanced imaging may be recommended to provide a clear diagnosis.
- Specialist referral: Your dentist may refer you to an oral medicine or oncology specialist for further care.
- Clear communication: You’ll be given straightforward explanations about what the findings mean for your health.
- Ongoing support: Even after referral, your dentist remains involved in monitoring and supporting your treatment journey.
Stay Ahead Of
Your Health With Confidence
The biggest benefit of oral cancer screenings is confidence—knowing that your health is cared for in the most efficient and comfortable way possible. With screenings included during exams, you don’t spend extra time or money for this important protection. At Blauer Family Dental in Spearfish, SD, you’ll find the answer many people are looking for when they search “dentist near me” for preventive care. Schedule your oral cancer screening today and take charge of your future with peace of mind.