Although seeing your dentist may not be at the top of your list of things to do this time of year, it should be. That’s especially true if it has been longer than six months since your last dental exam. These routine exams protect not only your dental health, but your overall health and well being. One important way a dental exam protects your health is through oral cancer screenings. Oral cancer is a highly deadly form of cancer, mainly because it is often found in the later stages of development, since some patients go for years without seeing their dentist. The good news is that the earlier oral cancer is found, the higher the chance for remission and a positive outcome. Nothing is more important than your health. Don’t put off the dental exam that could save your life. Make your dental checkup and oral cancer screening appointment with the office of Dr. Grant Ringler today. Dr. Ringler and his team of compassionate dental professionals serve families daily throughout Hutchison, KS, Newton, Winfield, Manhattan, Great Bend, El Dorado, and the surrounding communities.
General and Family Dentist Advice: What Are the Symptoms of Oral Cancer?
- A sore in the mouth that doesn’t heal after a few weeks
- A lump or thickening of the lining of the mouth
- A white or reddish patch inside the mouth
- Loose teeth or ill fitting dentures
- Tongue pain, jaw pain, or stiffness
- Difficult or painful chewing or swallowing
- A persistent sore throat or feeling that something is caught in your throat
General and Family Dentist Advice: Oral Cancer Risk Factors
The main risk factors for developing oral cancer are behavioral including: using tobacco products, drinking alcohol, excessive sun exposure, and contraction of the Human Papillomavirus. Oral cancer is twice more likely in men than women, but this is probably associated with the increase in tobacco and alcohol use by men. However, everyone’s risk for developing oral cancer increases with age. In fact, two-thirds of individuals with oral cancer are 55 or older.
General and Family Dentist Appointments and Oral Cancer Screenings in Hutchison, KS
Oral cancer screenings are just one of the many ways that seeing your dentist regularly can keep you healthy. Make an appointment with the office of Dr. Grant Ringler today for the oral cancer screening you need to stay healthy. Dr. Ringler and his team of highly qualified general and family dentists proudly restore smiles daily throughout Hutchison, KS, Newton, Winfield, Manhattan, Great Bend, El Dorado, and nearby areas.