{"id":5,"date":"2018-12-03T21:12:20","date_gmt":"2018-12-03T21:12:20","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.crovattoandedwards.com\/blog\/?p=5"},"modified":"2019-01-03T21:14:31","modified_gmt":"2019-01-03T21:14:31","slug":"dentist","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.crovattoandedwards.com\/blog\/2018\/12\/03\/dentist\/","title":{"rendered":"Visit Your Dentist for an Annual Oral Cancer Screening"},"content":{"rendered":"

\"oralThe American Dental Association recommends you visit your dentist twice a year for preventive care. You know your routine visits are vital for healthy teeth and gums, but did you know there is another important reason to keep your appointments? Semi-annual care gives you the opportunity to have an oral cancer screening<\/a>. With over 51,000 adults diagnosed with a form of the disease each year, the yearly exams play a valuable role in early detection.
\n<\/p>\n

Importance of Early Detection<\/h2>\n

Oral cancer is classified as those that affect the head and neck, but brain cancer is in a separate category. On average, the 5-year survival rate for those diagnosed with oral cancer is less about 65%. The survival rate has increased over the last several years; however, it remains lower than other cancers due to late detection. The availability of regular screenings is not widely discussed. As a result, the cancer is often not found until it has metastasized to other areas of the body or reached advanced stages.<\/p>\n

It is estimated, dentists can help to detect as much as 80% of new cases through routine screenings, which are available at preventive dental visits. Now you have another reason not to skip your next appointment for a cleaning and checkup.<\/p>\n

Regular Oral Cancer Screenings<\/h2>\n

It is best to have an oral cancer screening at least once a year. Your dentist can easily perform the examination during your dental checkup. They take the time to look for any indicators of cancerous or precancerous cells, such as:<\/p>\n