Oral cancer is a type of cancer that often goes unnoticed because it has very few signs and symptoms that patients notice. This is why the team at Maiden Lane Dental performs oral cancer screenings during each routine visit here in our New York, NY office.
Patients who use tobacco and drink alcohol regularly are at a greatly increased risk for oral cancer. While drinking and tobacco use are most often associated with oral cancer, there is a new demographic developing in the field, oral cancer is now being connected to human papillomavirus, also known as HPV. Oral cancer can appear anywhere in the oral cavity. It is most often found:
- On the lips
- On or under the tongue
- On the roof of the mouth
- Back of the throat
- The inside of the cheek
It is very important for everyone to have an oral cancer screening at least once a year, especially those who use tobacco or drink regularly. Dr. Lloyd Becker is able to incorporate oral cancer screenings into regular check-ups and cleanings. During this quick procedure, Dr. Becker will inspect your nose, mouth and throat. He will also examine the skin on the head and neck regions, feeling for lumps in the neck area as well.
The ability to detect oral cancer early is a great tool for Dr. Becker. He is able to identify and pinpoint the start of a potential problem much earlier in its evolution thanks to advances in modern technology. Individuals who have regular cleanings at least twice a year, are much more likely to have problems detected early as their oral condition is documented with each visit.
