Routine dental cleanings are vital for maintaining healthy teeth and gums, but their benefits extend far beyond just oral hygiene. During your regular dental visit at Studio Dental Care in Studio City, California (serving also Burbank, Sherman Oaks, and Toluca Lake), our dedicated dental hygienists and dentists, including Dr. Alexander Ash, perform a crucial service: oral cancer screening.

This screening involves a careful examination of the tissues and color within your mouth. Any unusual changes in texture or color, especially when accompanied by pain, can be an early warning sign of oral cancer. Early detection through these screenings significantly improves the chances of successful treatment.

Know the Symptoms of Oral Cancer:

It’s important to be aware of potential oral cancer symptoms. While not all of these signs indicate cancer, experiencing them for an extended period warrants immediate consultation with your dentist or physician. Symptoms may include:

Patches: White or red patches inside your cheeks or on your gums.
Persistent Sores: Irritating mouth sores that don’t heal within a reasonable time.
Ear Pain: Unexplained earaches or pains.
Tissue Changes: Thickening of the tissue in your mouth.
Mouth Changes: Redness or swelling in your mouth.
Tongue Discomfort: Tongue pain.
Jaw Issues: Jaw stiffness.
Sore Throat: Persistent sore throat.

If you notice any of these symptoms, please don’t delay – contact your dentist or doctor right away. For comprehensive information on various types of cancer, including oral cancer, please visit this government resource: National Cancer Institute.

Prevention is Powerful: Steps You Can Take

Oral cancer screenings are a proactive measure to catch cancer early. Beyond screenings, you can significantly reduce your risk through lifestyle choices:

Quit Smoking for Good: Tobacco use, whether smoked or chewed, is a major risk factor for oral cancer, in addition to numerous other health problems. Quitting smoking is one of the most impactful steps you can take for your overall health, including your oral health.
Limit Alcohol Consumption: Excessive alcohol intake is also linked to an increased risk of oral cancer. Moderating your alcohol consumption is beneficial for your liver and can lower your cancer risk. Learn more about the connection between alcohol and cancer risk here.
Regular Dental Visits: Consistent dental check-ups, including oral cancer screenings, are crucial for early detection and treatment. Studio Dental Care is committed to providing high-quality general and cosmetic dentistry services, including oral cancer screenings during routine exams.

For any questions or concerns about oral cancer screening, prevention, or treatment, please do not hesitate to contact Studio Dental Care today. We are here to help you protect your oral and overall health.

By Alexander Ash, DDS

Dr. Ash is the founder of Studio Dental Care. He earned his Doctorate at the University of Maryland School of Dentistry, followed by two General Residencies at New York-Presbyterian / Weill-Cornell Hospital and the UCLA Sepulveda VA Hospital.