When it comes to taking care of our health, we often think about visiting the doctor for annual check-ups or going to the dentist for regular cleanings. However, one aspect that is often overlooked is oral cancer screenings.

These screenings are crucial in detecting any signs of oral cancer early on, increasing the chances of successful treatment. At Pacifica Dental, we understand the importance of these screenings and want to educate our patients on why they are essential for maintaining good oral health.

1. Early Detection Saves Lives: One of the most critical reasons why oral cancer screenings are essential is because early
detection can save lives. When oral cancer is caught in its early stages, treatment options are more effective and have a higher success rate. By getting regular screenings at Pacifica Dental, you can ensure that any signs of oral cancer are detected early on, giving you the best chance at a positive outcome.

Click the following link to read more about Oral Cancer Detection:
https://cancer.ca/en/cancer-information/cancer-types/oral/diagnosis

2. Risk Factors: Certain lifestyle choices and habits can increase your risk of developing oral cancer. Smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, and poor oral hygiene are all factors that can contribute to the development of this disease.

By getting regular screenings at Pacifica Dental, you can stay on top of your oral health and catch any potential issues before they become more serious.

3. Quick and Painless Process: Some people may avoid getting an oral cancer screening because they fear it will be uncomfortable or invasive. However, at Pacifica Dental, our screenings are quick and painless. Your dentist will simply examine your mouth for any abnormal changes or lesions that could be indicative of oral cancer.

The peace of mind that comes from knowing you are taking proactive steps towards your health far outweighs any temporary discomfort.

4. Peace of Mind: One of the most significant benefits of getting regular oral cancer screenings is the peace of mind that comes with knowing you are taking control of your health.

By staying proactive about your dental care and getting screened regularly at Pacifica Dental, you can rest assured that you are doing everything possible to protect yourself from this potentially life-threatening disease.

5. Schedule Your Screening Today: If you have not had an oral cancer screening recently or if you have never had one before, now is the perfect time to schedule an appointment with Pacifica Dental.

Our dedicated team ensures thorough screenings for oral cancer as part of our comprehensive patient care. Proactively manage your health by scheduling a screening with us today – your well-being matters.

To Wrap Things Up…

Regular oral cancer screenings are a vital part of maintaining good overall health and well-being. By staying proactive about your dental care and getting screened regularly at Pacifica Dental, you can catch any potential issues early on and increase your chances for successful treatment outcomes.

Embrace the significance of these screenings – schedule yours today to take charge of your health journey! For additional information, feel free to reach out to Pacifica Dental.

The post Discover the Importance of Oral Cancer Screening first appeared on Pacifica Dental.

The first step in prevention is awareness. And that’s what Oral Cancer Awareness Month in April is all about.

Did you know…?

• The disease is affecting more people than ever before. (In 2017, 4,700 Canadians were diagnosed with oral cancer – nearly twice the number who were diagnosed a decade earlier in 2007.)
• In its earliest most treatable stages, oral cancer usually causes no pain or discomfort.
• If left undiagnosed, oral cancers can progress to more advanced stages.
• If diagnosed soon enough there is an 80-90% survival rate.
• We encourage everyone age 18 and older to receive an annual oral cancer screening during their regular hygiene checkup.
• Oral cancer screening is performed on all adult patients at Pacifica Dental at each checkup visit.

What can you do between visits?

• Reduce your lifestyle-related risk factors. These include smoking, drinking alcohol, sun exposure, a diet low in vegetables and fruit, and poor oral health.
• Be aware of other risk factors including a history of other cancers, HPV infection, a weakened immune system, and oral Lichen Planus.
• Look for these telltale signs or oral health issues: mouth sores that don’t clear up within 14 days, mouth pain, thickening of the cheek lining, loose teeth, ill-fitting dentures, loss of sensation in the lips or cheeks, voice changes, bleeding in the mouth.

And call us right away for an exam if any of these persist.

If it’s been a while since your last dental appointment, please give us a call. In addition to helping you ensure that you are free from tooth decay and gum disease, we will give you an oral cancer screening so you can feel secure in your oral – and overall – health.

Yours in excellent dental health,
Drs. Cristina and Bogdan Coca, dentists in Victoria, BC

The post Oral Cancer Awareness – Early Detection Saves Lives first appeared on Pacifica Dental.