How Oral Cancer Screenings Can Save Your Life

When was your last oral cancer screening? Oral cancer is one of the deadliest forms of the disease. This isn’t because oral cancers are any more aggressive than other forms of cancer, but because oral cancer is usually found in the later stages of development, when treatment options are limited. For many patients the disease goes undetected for years, because they fail to see a dentist for regular dental checkups. They aren’t aware that dentists perform life saving oral cancer screenings as a routine part of every exam.  Since many oral cancer symptoms can be easily disguised as less serious ailments, a problem may not be detected until the cancer has progressed and spread to other parts of the body. Early diagnosis and treatment of oral cancer greatly increases the chances of survival. If it has been more than six months since your last dental checkup, make an appointment with Dr. Cobb, your trusted Odessa family dentist today.  Dr. Cobb can provide the oral cancer screenings you need to protect your health.

Who Should Get An Oral Cancer Screening?

Men develop oral cancer twice as often as women, however everyone’s chances for developing oral cancer increases with age. Other oral cancer risk factors include:

• Tobacco use
• Alcohol use
• Excessive UV exposure
• Contracting Human papilloma virus (HPV)
• Poor Oral Hygiene
• Poor Nutrition

When Should You Get an Oral Cancer Screening?

You should make an appointment for an oral cancer screening every six months, but immediately if you experience any of the following symptoms:

• Sore, lump, or ulcer anywhere in the mouth or throat
• Chewing or swallowing problems
• Mouth sores
• Speech difficulties
• Swollen lymph nodes
• Tongue problems
• Sudden unexplained weight loss

Odessa Oral Cancer Screenings Available Now

Oral cancer screenings are just one way Dr. Cobb works to protect the overall health of his patients. If you or a loved one is at high risk for developing oral cancer, make an appointment for an oral cancer screening today. Dr. Cobb is a respected Odessa family dentist that has served families throughout the West Texas community for many years.  Protect your family’s good health and get an appointment for screening today.