Why should I have regular oral cancer screenings?
Patients in and around the communities of Newtown Square, Rosemont, Haverford, Gladwyne, or Bryn Mawr, Pennsylvania, who are concerned about a growth or change in their mouth may want to talk to the dentists at Main Line Dental Health & Wellness to undergo an oral cancer screening. Oral cancer screenings are done to detect the signs of cancer in the mouth. Drs. Jerald Matt and Naila Bryan will perform these evaluations during each appointment at our office and encourage you to be aware of the signs and symptoms of oral cancer so you can come in for a test and get a proper diagnosis early on. This ensures treatment is more successful the earlier the condition is found.
What is oral cancer?
Our team describes oral cancer as a type of cancer that affects many areas of the mouth, including the:
- Lips
- Tongue
- Cheeks
- Gums
- Salivary glands
- Throat
- Larynx (the voice box)
What can cause oral cancer?
Oral cancer is most often caused by tobacco use, excessive alcohol consumption, and chronic irritation in the mouth. Other risk factors include infection with certain types of human papillomavirus (HPV), exposure to ultraviolet light (UVA/UVB radiation) from tanning beds or sunning, or a family history of oral cancers.
How do I know if I have oral cancer?
Oral cancer detection starts with noticeable symptoms. These include:
- Changes in your voice
- Soreness or pain in the mouth that does not go away
- Difficulty swallowing
- Persistent bad breath
- Red or white patches on the tongue or gums
If you notice any of these changes, it may be time to call the team at Main Line Dental Health & Wellness to undergo an oral cancer test screening.
Where can I have an oral cancer examination done?
Drs. Jerald Matt and Naila Bryan of Main Line Dental Health & Wellness believe everyone should have regular oral cancer screenings at their routine dental visits every six months. If you reside in or around Bryn Mawr, PA, and want to speak to our team about having a screening performed during your next cleaning and evaluation, contact our office today! The practice is located at 776 West Lancaster Avenue and can be reached by phone to book an appointment at (610) 947-5566.
