Did you know that April is Oral Cancer Awareness Month? At Calcagno Cosmetic and Family Dentistry, we are offering free screenings throughout the month. Do you need an oral cancer screening? If you haven’t had one in the past year, we urge you to schedule a visit. We can perform a thorough exam to identify possible risk factors.
The Warning Signs
What are the possible symptoms of oral cancer? Warning signs may include:
- Sores in and around the mouth that do not heal after two weeks
- Red and white splotches in the mouth
- Rough spots or lesions
- Chronic hoarseness or sore throat
If you think any of these possible indicators sound familiar then contact our office. Catching the disease in the earliest stages is essential to an increased chance of recovery. Over 43,000 people are diagnosed with oral cancer each year. Of that number, nearly half will succumb to the disease within just five years. The main factor behind the high mortality rate is the fact the disease is rarely caught until the late stages. For early detection, you should have a screening.
What Does an Oral Cancer Screening Involve?
We typically offer the screening as a part of a routine checkup. However, for the month of April we are now offering the procedure free of charge to raise awareness. During the procedure, we will carefully examine your mouth for any possible cancerous or precancerous areas. If we discover any we may recommend a biopsy. We are available at any time to answer any questions or address any concerns you may have.
How Often Should I Be Examined?
We suggest having a screening at least once a year. During the procedure we can also watch for any signs of tooth decay or gum disease. Early detection is essential for treating the issue and helping you preserve a whole and healthy smile.
ABOUT YOUR ROCHESTER MN PREVENTIVE DENTISTS:
Calcagno Cosmetic and Family Dentistry offer expert services including dental implants, Six Month Smiles, pediatric dentistry, root canals, and teeth whitening in Rochester MN. To schedule a consultation, please call (507) 218-8936. Dr. Gilly Calcagno and Dr. Kara Heimer welcome and serve patients from Rochester, Red Wing, St. Charles, Winona, Farmington, Austin, and the surrounding communities.
