At Lifted Dentistry of Irvine, we believe that regular oral cancer screenings are a crucial part of your overall health and wellness. Early detection of oral cancer can significantly improve treatment outcomes, and our experienced dentist in Woodbridge Irvine is here to help ensure that you stay on top of your health with comprehensive screenings as part of your regular dental checkups.

Why Oral Cancer Screening Matters

Like many other types of cancer, early diagnosis of oral cancer can have a profound impact on the success of treatment. When detected in its earliest stages, oral cancers have an 80-90% survival rate. This high survival rate is directly linked to the fact that early-stage cancers are smaller, easier to treat, and less likely to have spread beyond the mouth. By contrast, cancers detected at later stages are often more aggressive and may have spread, making treatment more complex and less effective.

Our Woodbridge Irvine dentist will carefully examine your lips, tongue, gums, mouth, and throat for any signs of abnormalities that could indicate oral cancer. Regular screenings are your first line of defense against this potentially deadly disease, and we are committed to helping you maintain optimal health through early detection.

Signs and Symptoms to Watch For

If you notice any unusual changes in your mouth or throat, it’s important to address them as soon as possible. Symptoms that could indicate oral cancer include:

• Persistent ear pain
• Unexplained mouth bleeding
• Mouth sores that don’t heal
• White or red patches in your mouth
• Unexplained weight loss
• Lumps or swelling in or around your mouth
• Chronic sore throat without other cold or sinus symptoms
• A sensation of something caught in the back of your throat
• Difficulty swallowing, speaking, or moving your jaw or tongue

If you’ve been experiencing any of these symptoms for more than a week without improvement, it’s time to schedule an appointment with our dentist in Woodbridge Irvine. Catching oral cancer early is crucial to ensuring effective treatment and a higher chance of recovery.

Who Is at Risk for Oral Cancer?

While anyone can develop oral cancer, some factors may increase your risk. These include:

• Tobacco use (smoking or smokeless)
• Excessive alcohol consumption
• Prolonged sun exposure
• Poor diet or nutrition
• Family history of cancer or genetic predisposition
• Gastro-esophageal reflux disease (GERD)
• Age (oral cancer is more common in those over 40)

Men are also more likely to develop oral cancer than women, though both genders can be affected.

Schedule Your Oral Cancer Screening Today

Don’t wait for symptoms to appear before you get screened. Early detection is your best defense against oral cancer. At Lifted Dentistry of Irvine, we provide thorough, painless oral cancer screenings to help keep you healthy. If you’re due for a checkup or have concerns about oral cancer, don’t hesitate to contact our office to schedule an appointment today.

Your health is our priority, and we’re here to help you maintain a healthy smile for years to come.