For your health, keep routine screenings in Alpharetta, GA to prevent and proactively detect oral cancer
Dentists like Dr. Bella Hanono are often on the “front lines”of identifying problems that could have a big impact on your overall (systemic) health. During your appointment, Dr. Hanono will visually inspect for trouble signs. She’ll also feel for abnormalities by gently touching and examining your mouth, face, and head. She is looking for potential trouble signs that may warrant further investigation, such as facial asymmetry or droopiness, and unusual lumps, bumps, and swelling. Your dentist also assesses “function”; for instance, how you move your tongue. If necessary, specialist care may be necessary to rule out mouth cancers, or to start treatment quickly when it can be resolved effectively and non-traumatically.
Among these conditions, oral cancer has a high rate of successful treatment when detected and resolved early into the disease process. The team at Bella Hanono Family Dentistry in Alpharetta, GA, believes that the “Best form of Treatment is “Prevention.” Our routine screenings pinpoint abnormalities that may require further investigation at the office of an ear, nose, or throat doctor or other specialists. We also value our partnerships with patients; on an ongoing basis, our team discusses risk factors for cancers and other oral conditions. We work with you to manage or minimize those risks.
Usually, these check-ups are scheduled once every six months; however, if you are at risk of gum (periodontal) disease, tooth decay, or oral cancer, we will recommend more frequent appointments. You may be at an elevated risk of developing cancer on the lips, gums, tongue, insides of the cheeks, or roof and floor of the mouth if you:
- Smoke or use products that contain nicotine, including smokeless tobacco and e-cigarettes
- Are a chronic or heavy drinker of alcoholic beverages
- Exposure of your skin, including lips, to the sun for prolonged periods without using broad-spectrum sunscreen, or other forms of protection
- Have a condition that affects your immune system
- Test positive for the human papillomavirus (HPV)
While we can’t control all of our risk factors for oral cancers or other oral conditions, there are many controllable factors that we can eliminate or minimize to lower your risk of developing these potentially devastating diseases. No preventive, healthy approach would be complete without regular visits to your dentist! Contact Bella Hanono Family Dentistry today to schedule your appointment.
Frequently Asked Questions cancer screenings
When should I be concerned about a mouth sore?
Early detection is important for successful oral cancer treatment. That is why it is important to recognize warning signs that distinguish harmless lesions from harmful ones.
Be on the lookout for mouth sores with these characteristics:
- Lasts more than two weeks
- Do not respond to treatment despite time and self-care
- Bleeds easily without an obvious cause
- Sores accompanied by unexplained numbness and pain in the mouth
Many mouth sores are benign and do not cause any harm. However, seek professional evaluation for persistent or suspicious mouth sores, even if they do not cause pain. It’s better to be safe and err on the side of caution.
Do I have oral thrush or leukoplakia?
Oral thrush is a fungal infection that appears as creamy white patches that can be wiped away, often leaving redness underneath. Leukoplakia looks like thick, white patches that can’t be scraped off, often linked with chronic irritation or tobacco use. Because white patches can signal something serious, seek professional care for unusual changes in your mouth.
How often do I need oral cancer screenings?
Many patients should be screened at least once a year. However, patients with key risk factors require more frequent screenings.
These risk factors include:
- Tobacco use
- Heavy alcohol intake
- Prolonged sun exposure to the lips
- Being age 40 and above
- Exposure to certain strains of human papillomavirus (HPV)
- Previous cancer history
Who needs oral cancer screening?
Everyone. Oral cancer does not discriminate and can affect anyone, regardless of age, lifestyle, or risk factors. That is why we have made oral cancer screenings a standard part of every dental check-up.
We have seen oral cancer rise among younger patients who do not have exposure to traditional risk factors, such as smoking. That is why regular oral cancer exams are essential for all Alpharetta residents, regardless of age or lifestyle.
Is an oral cancer screening painful?
Not at all. The exam is quick, comfortable, and non-invasive. It involves a visual inspection of your oral tissues for signs of unusual patches, lesions, and discolorations. The exam also includes physical palpation to detect hardened areas, irregular bumps, or swellings. An oral exam takes about five minutes, and many patients are surprised by how comfortable it is.
What happens if my dentist detects something suspicious?
Dr. Hanono will recommend closer monitoring to track changes in the suspicious area over the next 2-3 weeks. If the area doesn’t improve, she will recommend a biopsy or refer you to a specialist for further evaluation. Catching something early gives you the best chance at simple, effective treatment.
Why is early detection important?
Oral cancer is far easier to treat successfully when caught early. Early detection improves the five-year survival rate by over 90%, which can drop to below 50% with late-stage diagnosis. Regular screenings can identify warning signs and recommend early intervention before the disease spreads and becomes harder to treat.
Can I prevent oral cancer?
While you can’t prevent mouth cancer 100%, certain steps can significantly reduce your risk.
These include:
- Quit tobacco products
- Reduce alcohol consumption
- Maintain good oral hygiene
- Use sun protection for the lips
- Consider regular oral cancer exams
- Perform self-exams of your mouth, lips, and throat
- If appropriate, consider HPV vaccinations
- Maintain optimal immunity with a balanced diet
Where can I find oral cancer screenings in Alpharetta, Georgia?
When was the last time you had an oral cancer exam? Has it been more than a few months or years? Don’t wait until something feels off to visit a dentist. Be proactive with your oral health and schedule your appointment today at Bella Hanono, D.D.S. Family Dentistry. Contact us at (770) 343-4052.
