When you go to the dentist, one of the most important things they will do is a head and neck exam. This is a vital part of your dental care as it checks for oral cancer. In this blog post, we will discuss what a head and neck exam at the dentist entails, and why it is so important!
During a head and neck exam, your dentist will look for any signs of oral cancer. This includes checking the lips, gums, tongue, cheeks, and roof of your mouth for any abnormalities. They will also check your throat for any lumps or masses. If they find anything abnormal, they will order further testing to determine if it is cancerous.
Oral cancer can include any type of cancer that affects the mouth cavity or oropharynx. The mouth cavity includes the lips, cheeks, gums, tongue, and roof of the mouth. The oropharynx includes the throat and tonsils.
There are several signs of oral cancer that you should watch for. Some of the most common signs include:
During an mouth cancer screening exam, your dentist looks over the inside of your mouth to check for red or white patches or mouth sores. Using gloved hands, your dentist also feels the tissues in your mouth to check for lumps or other abnormalities. The dentist may also examine your throat and neck for lumps.
Some dentists use special tests in addition to the oral exam to screen for mouth cancer. It’s not clear if these tests offer any additional benefit over the oral exam. Special tests may involve:
You’re at increased risk of mouth cancers if you:
The best way to work to prevent mouth cancers cancer is to:
Oral cancer screenings are an important part of maintaining your dental and overall health. If you have any concerns about cancer or would like to schedule an appointment, please contact Mountain Aire Dentistry today. Call us now to make an appointment!
When you visit our Broomfield dental office, your smile is our top priority. Our Dentists invite you to experience the difference a warm and caring team can provide for you and your family. Enjoy a unique and comfortable dental experience designed to bring a healthier and happier smile back into your life. We invite you to call or visit our Broomfield dental office and discover the exceptional difference we offer to those we serve.