Find out what goes into getting an oral cancer screening in Findlay, OH, and who should get them.

According to the Oral Cancer Foundation, about 132 new people will be diagnosed with oral cancer each day in the US, and someone dies every hour from oral cancer. With any cancer or serious health condition, it’s important that you do what you can to prevent this from happening. By turning to our Findlay, OH, family dentist Dr. Krystal DeClerck for screenings you can protect yourself for life.

When you come in for an oral cancer screening, our Findlay, OH, dentist will sit down with you to discuss your medical history. We will want to know more about past health problems, chronic conditions and a family history of certain cancers or other health issues.

The examination process is painless and only takes a couple of minutes. We will visually inspect your mouth and palpate the jaw and neck. We will look for any suspicious growths, lumps or other symptoms within the oral cavity, which includes the cheeks, lips, gums, tongue (as well as under the tongue), the roof or your mouth and the throat.

Seeing us regularly can certainly make it more likely for us to pinpoint any changes to your oral health during the earlier stages when oral cancer can be treated easily. Besides coming in every six months for routine exams and cleanings, if you experience any of these symptoms that don’t go away after two weeks, then you need to come in to our Findlay dental office:

• Red or white patches on the lips or inside your mouth
• A lump or growth on the lips or mouth
• Pain, tenderness or numbness of the mouth
• Feeling as if there is a lump or something stuck in your throat
• A crusted or thick patch of skin

What can put someone at risk for oral cancer?

There are a number of factors that can increase your chances of developing oral cancer. Smokers, heavy drinkers and those over the age of 50 are most at risk. Those who’ve also been diagnosed with human papilloma virus (HPV) are also at an increased risk.

Whether you are experiencing symptoms, have certain risk factors or just need to schedule your six-month visit, the professionals at DeClerck Family Dental in Findlay, OH, are here for you. Call us today!