Oral Cancer Screening Gambrills, MD Oral cancer is one of the most serious conditions a dentist screens for, and it is also one of the most treatable when caught early. Despite this, many people are unaware that a routine visit to the dentist includes a check for early warning signs. At Dr. Antonino Barbaro Cosmetic & Family Dentistry oral cancer screening is a standard part of the care we provide, because early detection genuinely saves lives. Contact our Gambrills office today to schedule an appointment with Dr. Antonino Barbaro Cosmetic & Family Dentistry — we are here to help you stay healthy and catch any concerns before they become serious. Call us at (443) 300-0400 to get started. What Is an Oral Cancer Screening?An oral cancer screening is a visual and physical examination of the mouth, throat, and surrounding tissues. During the exam, the dentist looks for unusual changes that may indicate precancerous or cancerous tissue, including red or white patches, sores that do not heal, lumps or thickened areas, and irregular tissue along the gums, tongue, cheeks, or floor of the mouth. The process takes only a few minutes and causes no discomfort. It is typically performed as part of your dental exam, so no separate appointment is needed. How Often Do I Need a Screening?For most patients, an oral cancer screening is recommended once a year. The dentist may suggest more frequent screenings if you use tobacco, drink alcohol heavily, have a history of oral cancer, or have had significant sun exposure over time, as these factors increase risk. The good news is that staying current with your regular checkups and teeth cleaning appointments means you are already building this protection into your routine care. What if Cancer Is Detected?Finding an abnormality during a screening does not automatically mean cancer is present. Many unusual areas turn out to be benign. However, if the dentist identifies something that warrants further evaluation, the next step is typically a referral to an oral surgeon or specialist for a biopsy or additional testing. When oral cancer is diagnosed at an early stage, treatment outcomes improve significantly. Patients who receive a diagnosis in the earliest stages have a much higher survival rate than those diagnosed after the cancer has spread. Prompt follow-through on any referral is critical. How Can I Protect Myself from Oral Cancer?While no measure eliminates risk entirely, several habits can meaningfully reduce your chances of developing oral cancer. Avoid Tobacco ProductsAll forms of tobacco, including cigarettes, cigars, pipes, and smokeless tobacco, are strongly linked to oral cancer. Eliminating tobacco use is one of the most impactful steps you can take. Limit Alcohol ConsumptionHeavy alcohol use is a significant risk factor, and the combination of alcohol and tobacco raises risk substantially. Moderating consumption lowers your exposure. Protect Your Lips from Sun ExposureProlonged UV exposure increases the risk of lip cancer. Wearing a lip balm with SPF and a wide-brimmed hat when outdoors provides meaningful protection. Get Vaccinated Against HPVHuman papillomavirus is increasingly associated with oropharyngeal cancers. The HPV vaccine, recommended for adolescents and young adults, helps reduce this risk. Maintain a Healthy DietA diet rich in fruits and vegetables provides antioxidants that support healthy cell function and may lower cancer risk over time. Schedule Regular Dental VisitsConsistent checkups give Dr. Antonino Barbaro Cosmetic & Family Dentistry the opportunity to monitor your oral health over time and catch any changes early, before they have the chance to progress. Schedule Your Appointment in Gambrills TodayIf you are due for a checkup, there is no better time to prioritize your health. Oral cancer screening, preventive care, and a thorough review of your overall oral health are all part of what we offer at every visit. |
Contact UsDr. Antonino Barbaro Cosmetic & Family Dentistry 1071 Route 3 North, Suite 201, Gambrills, MD 21054-1784 New Patients: (443) 300-0400 Existing Patients: 410-721-8777 Office HoursMonday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday 8:00am-3:00pm 7:00am-2:00pm 7:00am-2:00pm 7:00am-2:00pm Closed |
