Probably the best dentist’s office I’ll ever visit and I’m so grateful I found them when I did! Woodpoint Dental changed my life, undoing not only years of neglect, but also several botched/unfinished procedures my last dentist left me with. Everyone who works here is caring, attentive, and exceptional at what they do, and every experience I’ve had here has been above and beyond positive. My one complaint is that they no longer accept my insurance and I’m going to miss them dearly.
Most people think of dental exams as a way to check for cavities or get their teeth cleaned. While those are important benefits, regular dental exams also play a critical role in identifying more serious health concerns – including oral cancer.
Oral cancer can develop in the lips, tongue, cheeks, gums, or throat. Because early symptoms are often subtle or painless, many people don’t realize there’s a problem until the disease has progressed. That’s why routine dental visits are so important. They give your dentist the opportunity to spot warning signs early.
What Is Oral Cancer?
Oral cancer typically begins in the soft tissues of the mouth and may appear as small changes that are easy to overlook. The most common type is oral squamous cell carcinoma. Without early treatment, it can become life-threatening, but early detection greatly improves outcomes.
Warning Signs to Watch For
If any of the following symptoms last more than two weeks, schedule an evaluation:
- Sores that do not heal
- Lumps or thickened areas inside the mouth
- Red or white patches on the gums, tongue, or cheeks
- Ongoing sore throat or difficulty swallowing
- Numbness in the mouth or jaw
- Trouble speaking or chewing
Certain risk factors increase the likelihood of oral cancer, including tobacco use, heavy alcohol consumption, HPV infection, prolonged sun exposure to the lips, and weakened immunity. Being aware of these factors can help you take preventive steps.
Why Dental Exams Matter
During your regular dental exams at Woodpoint Dental, we carefully examine the tissues of your mouth for any unusual changes. The screening is quick, painless, and could potentially save your life.
According to the National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research, the five-year survival rate for oral cancer detected early is approximately 85 percent. When diagnosed at later stages, survival rates drop significantly. Because early lesions often don’t cause discomfort, routine exams are one of the best defenses against advanced disease.
What You Can Do at Home
Between appointments, you can monitor your own oral health:
- Check your mouth in good lighting using a mirror
- Look for persistent sores or color changes
- Notice any unusual lumps or texture changes
- Pay attention to lingering pain or numbness
If something doesn’t seem right, contact us right away for an evaluation.
Make Your Next Exam a Priority
Dental exams do far more than keep your teeth clean. They help detect problems early, including oral cancer. At Woodpoint Dental, your overall health is always part of the picture.
If it’s been more than six months since your last visit, schedule your appointment today. Call Woodpoint Dental at 718-866-3806 for Brooklyn or 516-347-7133 for Plainview, NY. Staying consistent with dental exams is one of the simplest ways to protect both your smile and your health. You can also schedule online.