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An oral cancer screening is an exam typically performed by a dentist to check the oral cavity for precancerous conditions or signs of cancer. During an oral cancer screening, an experienced dentist such as Dr. Barton H. Foutz of Foutz Family Dentistry is able identify early signs of oral cancer allowing patients to get treatment before reaching a more advanced stage.

At Foutz Family Dentistry, we are dedicated to the complete oral health of our patients, which is why we choose to perform a precautionary oral cancer screening during every dental exam. By doing so, our hope is to help patients reduce their personal risk for oral cancer or extend a patient’s possibility for successful treatment from an early diagnosis.

Why Is An Oral Cancer Screening Performed?

 Oral cancer screenings are a precautionary measure taken during a dental exam to check for potential signs of oral cancer. It is not a medical exam or a diagnostic exam and is not performed because cancer is suspected. It is estimated that approximately 84% of oral cancer cases can detected early by a dentist.

What Takes Place During An Oral Cancer Screening?

During an oral cancer screening a dentist will visually and physically examine the mouth, lips, face, neck, and inside of the nose for abnormalities such as:

• Swelling
• Bumps, Lumps, Or Hard Spots
• Ulcers Or Sores
• Discoloration
• Red Or White Patches
• Bleeding
• Numbness Or Pain While Biting Down

The dentist will also use a gloved hand to feel the tissues in the mouth while visually checking for abnormalities and signs of cancer. A dentist will also feel a patient’s head, cheeks, and areas around the jaw to check for unusual nodules, swelling, or lumps. Specialized examining tools or dyes may also be used to help them better identify potential problems. Patients with dentures or other dental appliances will be asked to remove them prior to the examination in order to perform a more thorough examination.

Am I At Risk For Oral Cancer?

 Unfortunately, oral cancer is often detected in patients with no risk factors, however the majority of those diagnosed with oral cancer will present at least one of the following risk factors:

• Smoking Or Tobacco Use (Including cigarettes, cigars, pipes, chewing tobacco, snuff)
• Heavy Alcohol Consumption
• Human Papillomavirus (HPV)
• Unhealthy Diet
• History Excessive Sun Exposure
• Age (Those over the age of 40 are at a higher risk)
• Gender (Men are at a higher risk than women)
• Previous Oral Cancer Diagnosis

Those with higher risk for oral cancer should especially seek out an oral cancer screening during regular dental cleanings, but as cancer can hit even those without risk factors it is increasingly important to include oral cancer screenings in every dental exam.

Henderson General Dentistry

Foutz Family Dentistry in Henderson, Nevada offers superior general, family and cosmetic dentistry. Through years of expertise and experience combined with modern dental procedures and technology, Dr. Barton H. Foutz and his staff provide the finest dental care. During a dental cleaning or dental exam, we will perform a thorough oral cancer screening to help better ensure the oral health of our patients. For more information or to schedule an appointment call us today at (702) 792-5929.

 Dr. Barton H. Foutz, DDS
2510 Wigwam Parkway Suite 100 Henderson, NV 89074
(702) 792-5929

Maintaining healthy teeth and gums requires a commitment to regular dental checkups. Brushing and flossing on a daily basis do not cancel out the importance of seeing your dentist every six months. During a dental checkup, your dentist and dental hygienist are able to check the overall condition of your teeth and gums, catching potential problems before they become worse.

Poor dental health has been linked with other serious conditions such as heart disease, lung disease, and respiratory infections among others. Bacteria found in your mouth can be breathed in or can enter your bloodstream affecting the overall health of your body. At Foutz Family Dentistry, we are committed to monitoring your oral health to ensure that your teeth and gums remain in the best condition helping to avoid other serious physical conditions.

Dental cleanings and examinations are typically recommended every 6 months, although for some patients a shorter period of time may be recommended. During a routine dental visit, Dr. Foutz and his team of oral hygienists will perform a visual inspection, periodontal probe and take digital x-rays along with a thorough dental cleaning.

Reasons For A Routine Dental Checkup 

• Disease Prevention – Staying consistent with dental visits allows Dr. Foutz to catch diseases or dental problems in the early stages, saving you from costly and more complicated procedures. During a dental examination, your teeth are thoroughly inspected for signs of periodontal, or gum, disease, vitamin deficiencies, oral cancer, cavities, plaque and tartar. Dr. Foutz and his knowledgeable team are highly trained to recognize signs of dental diseases making it possible to catch any

• Encourage Healthy Habits – During a dental cleaning and examination, dentists and hygienists alike are able to identify habits that might be negatively affecting your oral health. Damage to your teeth and gums can be cause by smoking, nail biting, teeth grinding, diet and even brushing habits. A dental checkup also is an ideal time to introduce healthy habits that will better benefit your teeth and gums. Your hygienist will likely recommend methods or habits that will help improve the condition of your teeth. Going to your dentist appointment every six months will help keep you accountable for staying consistent with proper brushing, flossing and avoidance of bad habits.

• Dental Cleaning–No one has perfect dental home care, which makes regular dental cleanings essential for maintaining dental health. Our hygienists at Foutz Family Dentistry will carefully remove plaque and tartar buildup that was not removed with regular brushing or flossing. Removal of plaque and tartar during a cleaning is one of the most effective way to prevent gum disease and improve bad breath.

• Head And Neck Examination – During a routine dental visit, Dr. Foutz also performs an examination of your head and neck checking lymph nodes and jawlines for any abnormalities. Dr. Foutz is able to identify swelling, lumps and other abnormalities that could be signs of a serious health issues allowing you to seek treatment before it can get worse.

Henderson Dental Examinations and Cleanings 

Dr. Barton H. Foutz, DDS strongly encourages patients to remain consistent with dental appointments every six months. Through routine dentist appointments, you will better be able to maintain the condition of your teeth and oral health. Contact our office today to schedule your routine dental examination.

Dr. Barton H. Foutz, DDS
2510 Wigwam Parkway Suite 100 Henderson, NV 89074
(702) 792-5929