Oral cancer is a serious condition affecting thousands every year and it is on the increase, but the good news is that early detection can significantly improve outcomes. Crown Bank Dental in Sandbach and Congleton routinely does dental cancer screenings at every check up. We’re committed to raising awareness for oral cancer while screening for early detection. We believe in the power of early detection to save lives. Contact us today to learn more.
Why Oral Cancer Screenings are Vital
Oral cancer can be symptomless in the early stages and often goes undetected until it is advanced, which can make treatment more difficult. Early detection is key, and identifying abnormalities significantly improves the chances of successful treatment. Regular oral cancer screenings can literally save lives by catching warning signs before the condition worsens. Some of the significant statistics that highlight the need for screenings include:
- Over 8,300 cases of mouth cancer are diagnosed each year in the UK.
- Survival rates can exceed 80% when the disease is caught early.
- Delayed diagnosis often results in more complex treatments and lower survival rates.
Symptoms of Oral Cancer
Understanding what to look for can help identify potential risks before your screening. Keep an eye out for these common symptoms:
- Persistent mouth sores that don’t heal
- Red or white patches inside the mouth
- Lumps or thickened areas in the cheek
- Difficulty swallowing or moving the jaw
- Unexplained bleeding or sores in the mouth
- Chronic hoarseness
Key Risk Factors for Oral Cancer
Although oral cancer can affect anyone, certain factors increase the risk. The most common key risk factors for oral cancer include:
- Tobacco use: Smoking or chewing tobacco is a leading cause of mouth cancer.
- Excessive alcohol consumption: Regular heavy alcohol use heightens risk.
- HPV (Human Papillomavirus): Some strains of HPV are linked to oral cancers.
- Sun exposure: Extended exposure can lead to lip cancers.
- Age and gender: Men over 40 are statistically at higher risk but incidence is also increasing in women in recent years.
What to Expect During an Oral Cancer Screening
At Crown Bank Dental, our screenings are straightforward, quick, and non-invasive. Here’s how the process works:
- Visual Examination: Your dentist will inspect your lips, gums, tongue, and the inside of your mouth for any unusual patches, sores, or discoloration.
- Physical Exam: Gentle palpation of your neck and jaw will help identify lumps or abnormal masses.
- Follow-up Tests (if needed): If we find something suspicious, we may recommend further tests, such as a biopsy, or refer you to a specialist.
Benefits of Oral Cancer Screenings
Oral cancer screenings are a quick and painless evaluation that can help detect early signs of oral cancer, significantly improving the chances of successful treatment. Some of the benefits of oral cancer screenings include:
- Saving Lives: A quick visit to your dentist for a screening can catch oral cancer in its early stages, even before symptoms like pain or visible sores appear.
- Quick and Painless Process: It’s a simple and pain-free procedure that could have life-saving outcomes.
- Customised Care: If anything unusual is detected, we can immediately guide you through the next steps, from advanced diagnostic tests to personalised treatment plans and if required, we can initiate an urgent 2-week-wait referral to see a specialist in secondary care.
- Boost Your Peace of Mind: Regular screenings reassure you that any issues will be handled promptly, helping you focus on other aspects of your life without worry.
Crown Bank Dental’s Commitment to Your Health
At Crown Bank Dental, patient health and well-being are at the heart of everything we do. Our team is passionate about providing top-quality preventive care, including regular dental cancer screenings. Your trust is important to us, which is why our team takes the time to ensure every check-up is thorough and patient-centered. Our patients choose us because of the following:
- Expertise: Highly trained practitioners with years of experience.
- Advanced Technology: Modern tools to improve the accuracy of screenings.
- Friendly Environment: We prioritise comfort for all patients and are especially compassionate with nervous patients
Be Proactive About Your Oral Health
Crown Bank Dental provides comprehensive treatments to boost confidence and enhance oral health. Oral cancer screenings are simple but can make all the difference in protecting your health. Regular check-ups help ensure peace of mind and early intervention if necessary. Book your oral cancer screening in Cheshire with Crown Bank Dental today, and take the proactive step toward a healthier future.
