When it comes to your health, early detection can make all the difference, and that’s especially true for oral cancer. At Your Clermont Dentist, we provide comprehensive oral cancer screenings as part of our routine dental exams, helping patients in Clermont safeguard their well-being through proactive care.
Why Oral Cancer Screenings Matter
Oral cancer affects tens of thousands of people each year, and tragically, one person in the U.S. dies from it every hour. The good news? When caught early, oral cancer has a high survival rate. That’s why regular screenings with our Clermont dentist are essential. They can detect signs of cancer before symptoms become serious or life-threatening.
What to Expect During a Screening
Our experienced dental team thoroughly examines your entire oral cavity during your visit. This includes your:
- Lips, tongue, and gums
- Inner cheeks and roof of your mouth
- Throat and the base of your tongue
- Jaw, neck, and lymph nodes
We check for anything abnormal, such as unusual sores, lumps, or discoloration. If you’ve noticed symptoms lasting longer than a week, it’s important to bring them up right away.
Common warning signs include:
- Persistent mouth sores or bleeding
- White or red patches in your mouth
- Unexplained weight loss
- Lumps in the mouth or neck
- Chronic sore throat or hoarseness
- Pain when swallowing, speaking, or moving your jaw
Who Is at Risk?
While oral cancer can affect anyone, certain factors increase your risk:
- Tobacco use of any kind (users are six times more likely to develop oral cancer)
- Heavy alcohol consumption
- Prolonged sun exposure to the lips
- Poor diet
- Family history of cancer
- Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)
- Age (more common over age 40)
- Gender (more common in men)
At Your Clermont Dentist, we take these risk factors seriously and make screenings a priority during your dental checkups.
Early Detection Saves Lives
Oral cancers caught in their early stages have an 80–90% survival rate. When detected early, treatment is often less invasive and more effective, reducing the risk of long-term complications. That’s why consistent dental visits aren’t just about your teeth, they’re a vital part of your overall health.
If it’s been a while since your last exam, or you have concerns about any symptoms, contact Your Clermont Dentist today. We proudly offer oral cancer screenings in Clermont and are currently welcoming new patients. Let’s work together to protect your health one visit at a time.