Oral cancer can affect adults of any and all ages. Some patients are more at risk of developing oral cancer, like those who smoke or use chewing tobacco.
Looking at the Big Picture of Your Health
Your dental visits are about more than just checking for cavities. They are a vital checkpoint for your overall well-being. Oral cancer can affect adults of any age and lifestyle, and because it is often painless in the early stages, it can easily go unnoticed at home.
We believe that early detection is the key to a long, healthy life. That is why our Aspenwood Dental team incorporates comprehensive screenings into your regular care. It is a simple, proactive step that gives you the best chance for early treatment and a cure.
Who Should Be Screened for Oral Cancer?
There is a common misconception that you only need to worry if you are a heavy smoker or use chewing tobacco. While tobacco use does increase the risk, oral cancer can affect anyone. In fact, a significant number of diagnoses occur in patients with no traditional risk factors at all.
Whether you have a history of tobacco use or simply want to stay on top of your health, we recommend an annual screening for every adult patient. It is a quick, non-invasive way to ensure everything is healthy.
What To Expect During Your Appointment
Your appointment will start with a cleaning performed by one of our licensed registered dental hygienists. The hygienist uses special instruments to clear away heavy tartar buildup and surface stains. Your teeth are then polished and carefully flossed, and the gums are checked for signs of inflammation or infection.
Once the cleaning has been completed, your dentist will come in to perform the rest of your examination. During this portion of your appointment, we will check for signs of tooth decay, loose or broken restorations, and even oral cancer. To make your future appointments easier, we’ll pre-schedule them before you leave the office.
Seeing What the Eye Can’t
We don’t rely on visual exams alone. Our team uses advanced OralID technology to get a deeper look at your oral health. OralID uses a specialized fluorescence technology (a safe blue light) that helps us see beneath the surface.
Healthy tissue reflects the light differently than abnormal tissue. This allows us to spot potential issues like pre-cancerous lesions or other abnormalities long before they would be visible to the naked eye. This technology helps us catch problems when they are smallest and easiest to treat. It’s a quick path to genuine peace of mind.
What to Expect During Your Screening
Screening for oral cancer is fast, painless, and seamless. It typically happens during your routine exam, so you don’t need a separate appointment.
- Visual Scan: We visually check the soft tissues of your mouth, including the tongue, cheeks, and throat, looking for any unusual spots.
- Physical Check: We may gently feel your jaw and neck to check for any lumps or irregularities.
- OralID Light: We shine the blue light into the mouth to highlight any hidden concerns.
If we do find something unusual, don’t panic. Many spots are benign (harmless). We will guide you through the next steps, which might include monitoring the area or a simple biopsy, to ensure you get the answers you need.
Arrange Your Visit Today!
Ready to schedule your family’s dental appointments? If so, please call Aspenwood Dental Associates and Colorado Dental Implant Center. Our family dentist in Aurora, CO, serves patients in greater Colorado. Some even come as far as Denver and Centennial!
or call (303) 529-2913