4 Signs You Should See a Dentist for Oral Cancer Screening
Thanks to the growing awareness about oral health, more patients seek help when they encounter worrying signs of dental health issues. Cancerous growths can occur anywhere in your body, including your oral cavity. Your dental specialist is your best companion in the war against mouth cancer. If you rarely go for screening, this article highlights signs of developing mouth cancer and the need to see a dentist immediately.
1. Sores That Don't Heal
Over time, you may develop sores in your inner cheek due to injuries like accidental bites. Normal sores go away within a few days, even without treatment. However, you might want to take note of sores, growths, and lumps that persist for an unusually long period. Although the sores might signal minor infections or injuries, it is best to check out with the dentist and rule out cancer. Therefore, schedule a screening to enjoy peace of mind or start treatment early if the dentist confirms your fears.
2. Unending Sore Throat
Sore throats are pretty common, especially if you have a cold. However, you should recover quickly after a complete dosage of relevant antibiotics. If you keep complaining of sore throat, it is best to see a dentist. Sore throats might indicate a developing cancerous growth, making it hard for victims to chew, speak, or swallow. This may lead to drastic weight loss and lower your quality of life. Consider seeking medical attention immediately to get explanations and suitable treatments for sore throats.
3. Bleeding and Swelling
Bleeding when brushing your teeth is a common problem you can solve through gentle cleaning. Excessive or unusual bleeding should always be a call for concern. Although the sign might indicate periodontal disease, it is best to consult with your dentist. Sometimes the bleeding may be accompanied by swelling around the oral cavity. This might make eating a hard task. Consider setting an appointment with your dentist for screening and treatment, regardless of the cause of bleeding and swelling.
4. Mouth Numbness
Numbness in the neck, mouth, or face needs further investigation. Facial numbness might indicate mouth cancer. If you only feel pain when you press some parts of your face or mouth, you might want to schedule an appointment with the dentist for screening and treatment.
The good news about early cancer detection is that it is treatable. You are encouraged to schedule a routine screening to detect such a problem early and seek timely treatment. If the test results are positive, your dentist will take you through the most effective treatment options.
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