An oral cancer screening is an important part of dentistry as it indicates any warning signs that oral cancer may be present or on its way. Thankfully, these screenings are quick, painless and very easy! General dentists can perform them during a routine checkup appointment, which makes it even easier.
There are two parts of an oral cancer screening, the first being a visual examination where the soft and hard tissues of the mouth are carefully inspected. The second part involves a physical examination, in which the dentist feels around the patient's mouth. One question that often arises in regards to oral cancer is how often an oral cancer screening should take place. Ready to find out?
How often to have an oral cancer screening
Below is an overview of how often oral cancer screenings should be performed. This information can be helpful for patients who are not sure.
Young adults
Children are not typically required to undergo an oral cancer screening, as their risk is quite low. However, once children develop into young adults, most general dentists recommend a screening during a checkup appointment. Patients that are over the age of 20 should undergo an oral cancer screening every three years just to check for any warning signs or abnormalities that may indicate early onset oral cancer.
Adults and the elderly
Once patients reach the age of 40, general dentists recommend that an oral cancer screening take place at least once a year. Most patients are required to visit their dentist twice a year or every six months for a routine checkup. During one of these appointments, the dentist can also perform an oral cancer screening, which will not take long!
Elderly patients that are over the age of 60 are also recommended to undergo an oral cancer screening once a year. In some scenarios, elderly patients are at a higher risk of developing oral cancer, which may make the dentist recommend more frequent screenings.
Other factors
While most general dentists recommend the above guidelines for undergoing an oral cancer screening, there are some other factors that may play into the required frequency. Patients that have older family members who had oral cancer are often more likely to be at risk. Genetics play a big role in things such as oral cancer, which is why frequent screenings may be necessary. Additionally, those that have serious oral health problems may be at a higher risk of developing cancer in their mouths. With that being said, most general dentists recommend oral cancer screenings twice a year, for those who are at higher risk.
Learn more today!
Oral cancer screenings are crucial for maintaining good health. They can quickly catch any signs that may indicate a need for treatment. Working with a general dentist to better understand oral cancer screenings and how often they are needed is a great place to start. Reach out today to learn more or to get started.
Request an appointment here: https://www.stgeorgedentalcare.com or call St. George Dental Care at (435) 628-9099 for an appointment in our St George office.
Check out what others are saying about our services on Yelp: Read our Yelp reviews.
Recent Posts
Getting a tooth filling is a common dental procedure that helps restore damaged teeth and prevent further decay. After your appointment, your dentist will likely recommend eating soft foods to avoid discomfort and protect your new filling while it sets properly.Choosing the right soft foods to eat after tooth filling can make your recovery more…
Most people brush their teeth twice daily and consider their oral hygiene complete. However, two common dental threats silently develop in your mouth every day: plaque and tartar. Understanding the difference between tartar and plaque is crucial for maintaining optimal oral health and preventing serious dental problems.Both pose significant risks to your teeth and gums.…
Dental crowns serve as protective caps that restore damaged teeth to their natural function and appearance. While these restorative treatments help millions of people maintain healthy smiles, some patients worry about potential risks. Understanding the dangers of dental crowns and how to prevent them can help you make informed decisions about your oral health.At St.…
When your dentist mentions that you need a dental crown, one of the first questions that comes to mind is likely about cost. Understanding the average crown cost can help you budget for this important dental treatment and make informed decisions about your oral health care. At St. George Dental Care in Southern Utah, we…