Oral cancer is a very serious risk, especially considering that its five-year survival rate is only 60 percent. Fortunately, Dr. Stephen Petinge and his team check each of our patients for signs of oral cancer at every dental exam. Your odds of beating the disease increase by 20 percent with early detection, and Dr. Petinge can refer you to a physician for follow-up if you don’t already have a primary care physician.
If you’re interested in oral cancer screening or think you may have certain risk factors, you can always request it during your regular preventive care exam and cleaning. Screening is quick, painless, and can potentially save your life. You also don’t have to worry about cost, because our exam fee already includes screening. When it comes to something this important, it’s always better to check and make sure, rather than assume you’re safe.
Approximately 30,000 people receive an oral cancer diagnosis each year. Sadly, it’s fatal for approximately 8,000 Americans annually. Detecting and treating oral cancer in its earliest stages makes it possible to avoid escalating concerns. Although anyone can acquire this disease, oral cancer is most common in people over age 50, heavy drinkers, and smokers. When younger people get oral cancer, it’s often related to human papillomavirus (HPV).
We encourage you to check your mouth regularly and report the following issues to us right away:
Dr. Petinge will perform a complete oral exam. If Dr. Petinge suspects an abnormality, he will promptly refer a patient to an Oral surgeon or Internist.
