More and more people have become aware of the dangers of oral cancers. The diagnosis and treatment of celebrity patients like Michael Douglas help put this dangerous disease in the news. But do people think that oral cancer screening is important and worthwhile? The answer in Britain seems to be yes. A study completed in Britain showed that almost 90% of patients would like to be checked for oral cancer during their dental visits. Despite that number only 14% of those surveyed said that their dentist had talked to them about the risks and symptoms of oral cancer. Hopefully dentists in the US are doing better at talking to patients about the importance of oral cancer screening than our colleagues across the Atlantic.

Oral cancer screening is a part of every comprehensive oral examination conducted here at StoneRidge Dental Care. The rates of oral cancer have been increasing in recent years and it is vital for everyone to be screened regularly. Oral cancers used to be seen primarily in older individuals who smoked and drank alcohol regularly. Today we are seeing an entirely different group of patients being diagnosed with mouth and throat cancers — young adults. The primary cause for cancers in this age group appears to be HPV infection.

If you have not scheduled your appointment yet please contact Columbus, OH  cosmetic dentist Dr. Mark Levy today at 614-476-6696. We will be glad to schedule your examination and answer any questions you might have about oral cancer screening.