Oral Cancer Screenings
Oral Cancer Screenings
Oral cancer is among the deadliest forms of cancer, but did you know that it’s also one of the more preventable types? It’s also far easier to treat in its early stages. This is why during every routine checkup, our team will perform a thorough oral cancer screening to ensure that no signs of the disease are lurking under the radar. Part of this process involves detailed digital imaging that allows us to scan your entire upper and lower jaw in one clear image.
The Numbers Behind the Screening
According to the CDC, more than 45,000 new cases of oral cavity and pharynx cancer were reported in the United States in a single year, with over 10,000 deaths. The SEER cancer statistics program puts the overall five-year relative survival rate at about 70% - but survival differs enormously by stage: cancers caught early have markedly better outcomes than those found late. Screening during a routine visit exists for this reason - it takes minutes and requires no preparation. Risk factors include tobacco and alcohol use, and HPV (human papillomavirus) has become a leading cause of cancers in the oropharynx, the part of the throat behind the mouth - which is why screening matters even for patients with no history of smoking.
