Oral Cancer Screenings in Fort Myers, FL
Every hour one adult in the U.S. dies from mouth cancer. But when diagnosed in the early stages, oral oropharyngeal cancers are very treatable. Early detection often results in a higher success rate, and the treatment is less invasive. When allowed to advance, this aggressive form of cancer can be deadly. It can spread and require surgical intervention.
That is why Dr. Joseph Vanderbosch recommends that patients receive an annual oral cancer screening. Routine checks can help ensure that we uncover signs of the disease early.
Mouth Cancer Screenings Near You
During your screening, Dr. Joseph Vanderbosch looks for anything abnormal. Your entire mouth, lips, and throat will be examined closely. If you experience any of the following symptoms, call Freedom Dental Fort Myers right away:
- A feeling like something is stuck in your throat
- Difficulty or pain swallowing, speaking, or moving your tongue or jaw
- Ear pain with no clear cause
- Mouth bleeding with no explanation
- Red or white patches on the soft tissues of the mouth
- Significant weight loss
- Sores that never heal
- Strange bumps in or around the oral cavity
- Throat pain with no sinus issues
Get in touch with our local dental office in Fort Myers, FL if you suspect you have oral cancer. If any of these symptoms last for over a week without improving, we must treat the problem.
Who is Most Vulnerable to Oral Cancer?
No one is immune to getting mouth cancer. While anyone can get it, there are specific factors that can put some people at a higher risk, including:
- Alcohol abuse
- Heredity issues or genetic makeup
- Males are more prone to developing oral cancer than females
- Prolonged or excessive sun exposure
- Reflux issues
- Tobacco use makes you six times more likely to get the disease
- Unbalanced daily diet
For more information on oral cancer screenings near you, contact Freedom Dental Fort Myers.
Call our Fort Myers, FL Dental Office Today
Everyone should be screened every year for oral cancer, starting at the age of 18. If you use any tobacco product, then you should begin your annual examinations when you start using it.