An old axiom states, “An ounce of prevention is worth more than 10 pounds of cure.” This statement perfectly incapsulates the significance of receiving preventive care from your dentist in Las Cruces. That’s because while you’re there, you’ll receive an oral cancer screening. Read on to learn why this is so important to have done, and also discover the other benefits of being proactive about your oral health.
How Does Oral Cancer Typically Originate?
Cancer cells are always developing, but the body’s immune system, when functioning properly, eliminates them. However, there are certain factors that hinder its function, such as:
- Tobacco use
- Over-exposure to the sun
- Heavy alcohol consumption
- A high consumption of sugar
- A diet high in processed ingredients
If any of the above apply to you, it’s even more important to visit your dentist for preventive care.
What Happens at a Preventive Care Visit?
Visiting your dentist semi-annually is your avenue to maintaining excellent oral health. It also provides a way to identify any developing issues before they can manifest into bigger problems. This is what typically happens at a preventive care visit:
- Cleaning – The visit kicks-off with the dental hygienist thoroughly cleaning your teeth. This step is crucial because it removes any stubborn plaque and tartar that otherwise couldn’t be addressed with normal brushing and flossing.
- Dental Hygienist’s Examination – Once your teeth are cleaned, they’re ready to be examined. Your dental hygienist will be looking for signs of tooth decay and gum disease so any developments can be corrected.
- Dentist’s Examination – Your dentist will perform a second examination, which includes an oral cancer screening so that any developments can be identified and treated.
Why an Oral Cancer Screening is So Important
This year, it’s projected that 50,000 people will be diagnosed with oral cancer, and 8,000 of the cases will be fatal. However, when a proactive approach is taken, the odds shift greatly.
Studies show that with early detection, the five-year survival rate is as high as 75%. If the initial symptoms of oral cancer are ignored or not recognized, though, the survival rate falls drastically to only 20%.
The Month of April is a Special Time
Dentists around the country are especially encouraging patients to take a more aggressive approach to preserving their oral and overall health by visiting for preventive care, because April has been designated as National Oral Cancer Awareness Month.
Committing just one hour of your time to a visit can change your life in a positive manner and ensure you have a bright and healthy future. So take a stand for your total wellness by reaching out to your local dentist to schedule a visit today!
About the Author
When you visit the professionals at Painted Skies Dental Center, you’ll soon learn that oral health is a family affair. That’s because the married couple of Ramon M. Ortiz, DDS and Natalie J. Ortiz, DDS combine their expertise to help patients experience the absolute best in dental health. To learn more about their services and to schedule a preventive care appointment, you can visit their website.