Oral Cancer Screening in Miami: How to Prepare and More

Early detection of cancer improves the chances of successful treatment. That’s the case with any type, including oral cancer. What age should start your screening? What can you expect? Does a cancer screening hurt? Here’s all you need to know about oral cancer screening in Miami. 

At What Age Should I Begin Oral Cancer Screenings?

If you smoke or use tobacco products, you should really start oral cancer screenings at the age you started using those products. If you’re a non-smoker, it’s safe to start oral cancer screenings at the age of 18.

How Often Should I Have an Oral Cancer Screening?

Always follow the recommendations of your dentist, especially if you have risk factors such as tobacco use, heavy drinking, or a family history of cancer. However, the general guidelines are that ages 18 to 40 should have a screening every three years. People over 40 should have a yearly oral cancer screening.

How Do I Prepare?

As a rule, there is not much to do to prepare for an oral cancer screening. They are usually done during a routine dental visit. If there are instructions specific to you, your dentist will let you know.

What Should I Expect During This Screening?

An oral cancer screening in Miami is not painful. It begins with a visual exam of all areas of your mouth and throat. Your dentist will use a light and tongue depressor to search for abnormalities. They will also feel your cheeks, jaw, chin, and neck to look for unusual masses.

If abnormalities are found, your dentist may want to do tests. This might mean injecting dye and then using laser light to locate the abnormal tissue or rinsing your mouth with a solution that will indicate abnormalities.

Your dentist will likely instruct you on how to do self oral cancer screenings at home too.

Take Control of Your Oral Health! Contact People’s First Dentistry to Schedule Your Oral Cancer Screening in Miami!

Taking control of your health is truly empowering. At People’s First Dentistry, we want to make it easy for you. We offer comprehensive oral cancer screenings as well as general, cosmetic, and emergency dentistry services. To request your appointment or if you have questions, please contact us at 786-310-3540 today!