The importance of regular oral cancer screenings for a healthier smile

At Eagle Family Dental of Arlington, Washington, our professionals are dedicated to offering patients the services they need to achieve a healthy smile. While brushing, flossing, and routine dental cleanings are vital to keeping problems such as periodontal disease and tooth decay at bay, there is another condition that can impact your oral health: oral cancer.

What is oral cancer?

Our team describes oral cancer as any cancer that develops in the mouth. This may include the tongue, cheeks, and throat. Like any cancer, it can spread and become life-threatening, so early diagnosis and treatment are strongly encouraged. This is where you come in: having regular oral cancer screening with your dental team can reduce your risks and improve the chances of survival if found in the earliest stages.

What causes oral cancer?

A wide variety of factors may cause oral cancer. Common risk factors include smoking and heavy alcohol consumption, but even those without these habits can get oral cancer. In some cases, it is simply the result of age-related changes in cells or genetics. That’s why we recommend regular screenings to look for any signs of abnormalities.

What are some of the symptoms of oral cancer?

The symptoms of oral cancer can differ, but there are some common signs to look out for, including:

  • Lumps in the mouth or throat area
  • Sores that do not heal
  • Pain when swallowing
  • Chronic bad breath and hoarseness

If you have any of these symptoms for more than a few weeks, it is imperative that you speak with your dental team about getting checked.

Are you in need of an oral cancer screening? Call today!

Drs. Bryce Duskin, Arezoo Holdaway, Gavin McNelis, and Ally Mueller of Eagle Family Dental believe in providing the quality care you deserve. If you have oral cancer symptoms or need a screening, call our Arlington, WA team today at (360) 322-1251. Our office is located at 20302 77th Avenue NE and is open to patients in and around Arlington, Marysville, Stanwood, Smokey Point, Camano Island, Lake Stevens, Granite Falls, and  Everett WA.