Oral Cancer Screenings
Visiting your dentist on a regular basis for professional cleanings and exams is important for obvious reasons, mostly to ensure that you enjoy all the benefits of good oral health. But there is another important reason to see Dr. Argandona for regular exams: oral cancer screenings. The word “cancer” is terrifying for most of us, but the truth is that most forms of oral cancer are treatable with the proper cancer dental care if caught in the early stages. Dr. Argandona includes oral cancer testing as part of her regular oral exam for her patients from throughout the Leander, TX, and West Lake Hills, TX, areas.
Why Oral Cancer Screening Is So Important
Having your dentist check you for oral cancer is important because there are sometimes few obvious signs that the condition is present. There are, however, some symptoms that might indicate a problem, including the following:Red patches or sores, and white or pink patches that bleed easily and don’t healA white or gray slightly raised lesionLumps, soreness, or thickening of tissue in the throat or mouth as is usually the case with any type of cancer, the sooner the condition is detected, the easier it is to treat. That’s why regular oral cancer screening is so important.
Oral Cancer Treatment and Prevention
There are many treatment options available for oral cancer patients. Depending on how far the condition has progressed, treatment may include biopsy, excision, chemotherapy, or radiation treatment. Most forms of oral cancer are caused by habits such as smoking, chewing tobacco, and excessive consumption of alcohol. Practicing dental care for cancer often begins with cutting the threat off at its source. Dr. Argandona can discuss with you the best ways to modify your own habits in order to avoid developing this condition.