Oral Cancer Screenings in North Miami Beach, FL

Prioritize and Protect Your Oral Health

Oral cancer, a potentially life-threatening condition, can manifest silently and progress rapidly if left undetected. Oral cancer screenings play a pivotal role in your oral health. At Dr. Abbo Advanced Dentistry, Dr. Eli Abbo is one of the best dentists in North Miami Beach, FL, for keeping your oral health in top shape. Learn more about this vital step in your routine dental visits. 

What Is Oral Cancer?

A man smiles confidently following his teeth whitening treatment.Oral cancer can affect anyone, regardless of age or lifestyle. It’s a condition where abnormal cells grow uncontrollably in the mouth, throat, or lips. By opting for regular oral cancer screenings from Dr. Abbo, you can take a proactive step toward early detection and treatment.

Signs of Oral Cancer

Here are some signs and symptoms to watch out for:

  • Persistent Sores: Any sore or ulcer that doesn’t heal within two weeks should be examined by a healthcare professional.
  • Red or White Patches: Any unusual, persistent red or white patches on the gums, tongue, tonsils, or mouth lining should be checked.
  • Pain or Discomfort: Persistent pain, tenderness, or numbness in the mouth, throat, or lips can indicate a problem.
  • Difficulty Swallowing: Trouble swallowing along with a feeling of something being stuck in the throat might be a sign.
  • Hoarseness: Unexplained hoarseness or a change in voice could indicate an issue.
  • Lumps or Thickening: Any lumps, bumps, or thickening of the tissues in the mouth or neck should be evaluated.
  • Unexplained Bleeding: If you experience unexplained bleeding in the mouth or throat, it’s crucial to get it checked.
  • Unexplained Weight Loss: Rapid weight loss without reason could be a symptom.
  • Persistent Bad Breath: Chronic bad breath that doesn’t improve with oral hygiene could be related to a deeper issue.

The Importance of Early Oral Cancer Detection

Detecting oral cancer at an early stage significantly increases the chances of successful treatment and recovery. Early detection can lead to less aggressive treatment options, better preservation of oral function, and improved quality of life for patients. Regular screenings and being aware of potential symptoms are vital steps in catching oral cancer early.

How Do Oral Cancer Screenings Work?

Oral cancer screenings are typically performed by dentists or healthcare professionals during routine dental check-ups. Here’s how they work:

  • Visual Examination: Dr. Abbo will visually inspect your mouth, tongue, gums, throat, and other oral tissues for any abnormalities, such as unusual patches, sores, or lumps.
  • Physical Palpation: They may gently feel the tissues in your mouth and neck to check for any unusual lumps, tenderness, or thickening.
  • Advanced Techniques: Some dentists might use additional tools like oral cancer screening lights or devices that help detect abnormal tissues that might not be visible to the naked eye.
  • Patient History: Dr. Abbo might ask about your medical history, lifestyle habits (like tobacco and alcohol use), and any symptoms you might have experienced.
  • Referral: If any suspicious areas are identified, further tests or a referral to a specialist might be recommended. This could include a biopsy, imaging scans, or consultation with an oncologist.

Regular dental visits and oral hygiene are crucial for maintaining oral health and early detection of potential issues like oral cancer. 

Oral Cancer Diagnosis & Treatment

Older couples enjoy each other's company after their dentist appointments.The oral cancer exam is completely painless and routine. Dr. Abbo will check for abnormalities or bumps around your face, glands, and neck. Lasers are also utilized to help Dr. Abbo look under the surface of your skin. If any lumps or lesions are detected, your dentist will implement a diagnostic impression and treatment plan. A biopsy may also be performed on the affected area, which includes a clinical evaluation that will identify the grade of the lesion.

Treatment for oral cancer will depend on the diagnosis, spread, and severity of the issue. This can include excision, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy. During your bi-annual check-ups, your dentist will look for changes in your mouth. We recommend that you undergo a comprehensive oral cancer examination at least once a year.

Frequently Asked Questions

Oral cancer screening is recommended for adults of all ages, but the ideal time to start can vary. Generally, individuals should consider getting screened regularly from the age of 18 and above, especially if they have risk factors such as tobacco or alcohol use, a history of oral cancer, or a family history of the disease. Remember, early detection plays a pivotal role in successful treatment outcomes.
Identifying the early stages of oral cancer is crucial for effective treatment. In its initial phases, oral cancer might appear as small, white, or red patches on the tongue, gums, or mouth lining. These patches might not cause any discomfort, making them easy to overlook. Regular self-examinations and professional screenings are essential for spotting these subtle signs.
Survival rates for oral cancer depend on various factors, including the stage at which it’s detected and the treatment provided. Generally, the five-year survival rate for oral cancer is around 65 percent, but this figure can significantly increase if the cancer is detected and treated early.
Oral cancer can develop in various areas within the oral cavity. The most common location, however, is the tongue. Other areas where oral cancer frequently appears include the floor of the mouth, the lips, the gums, and the back of the throat. Oral cancer can affect any part of the mouth, so comprehensive screenings that cover the entire oral cavity are essential for accurate detection and diagnosis.

Safeguard Your Healthy Smile With Routine Screenings

Early detection can dramatically increase your chances of surviving oral cancer. That’s why at Dr. Abbo Advanced Dentistry, our dentists recommend getting an oral cancer exam once a year. 

To learn more about how oral cancer exams can protect your oral and overall health, contact our North Miami Beach, FL office by calling (305) 945-0909 or filling out our online form. Our practice proudly serves patients who live in the Norland, Ojus, and Keystone Islands, FL areas.

 

If you have any questions or concerns about oral cancer, please ask your dentist or dental hygienist.

Dr. Abbo Advanced Dentistry
3031 NE 163rd Street
North Miami Beach, FL 33160
Phone: 305-945-0909
Fax: 305-945-0907
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