Our team of dentists near you addresses every component of preventive dental care. During regular dental exams, we evaluate patients for signs that may indicate oral cancer in a simple, non-invasive process.
Oral cancer cases are steadily rising, and the disease is often difficult to detect during the early stages. The patient may not experience any pain, discomfort, or physical symptoms. The earlier oral cancer is diagnosed, the better are the chances of a cure.
What Causes Oral Cancer in New Westminster, BC?
Although there are several factors that may increase the risks of oral cancer, this disease is known to occur in people with no known risk factors. Oral cancer screening is an effective preventive measure that can highlight early or hidden signs.
Age: Patients above the age of 55 are at higher risk of oral cancer than younger people.
Gender: In general, males are known to be at higher risk for oral cancer than females.
Smoking and Tobacco Use: Heavy smoking and tobacco usage are risk factors that may make you more vulnerable to oral cancer.
Poor Nutrition: An unhealthy diet or poor nutrition can reduce your body’s immune systems and increase the risks of developing oral cancer.
Oral Cancer Screening at Asante Dental Centre
Our dentists in New Westminster, BC take a few minutes to screen you for oral cancer symptoms. We check your lips, gums, palate, the floor of the mouth, tongue, and throat, face, and neck for abnormalities.
Early signs of oral cancer could include:
- Red or white patches or oral lesions
- Unexplained bumps, masses, or lumps (these are usually painless)
- An ulcer or pimple on the gums that won’t heal
- Pain in the mouth or near the ear
- Pain while moving the tongue
If we notice a lesion that is suspicious, you will need to have it biopsied first to confirm the cause. Our dentists use equipment like the VELscope® to identify abnormal tissue that may be difficult to detect during a visual exam.
Asante Dental Centre provides reliable, safe, and oral cancer screenings near you.
