Finding the best solution for a given malady is one key to effective treatment. But preventing problems before they strike is just as important to overall wellness. At Nicholas P. Kondon, DMD, we hope to be able to prevent potential issues in our patients. That is why we offer a large range of preventive care, including screenings for oral cancer.
Oral cancer is detected in nearly 50,000 Americans every year. But the number of people who actually have it may be substantially higher, because oral cancer is frequently not diagnosed until it has developed for quite some time and spread elsewhere. Late diagnosis is one of the reasons the disease is so deadly, killing nearly 10,000 people annually. But if it is caught early, oral cancer is much more treatable.
One reason oral cancer can go undiagnosed for so long is that it usually manifests no initial symptoms. Even if symptoms do manifest, they can be mild and easily-dismissed. This is why getting regularly screened is so important. A screening involves a careful visual examination of the oral cavity, lips, face, and neck, as well as checking for lumps or irregularities. This examination can reveal issues other than oral cancer as well, so it is a good idea to come in for one every six months.
Preventive care is crucial to maintaining overall oral health and wellness. Problems caught early are often less severe and can require less drastic action. To learn about the kind of preventive care we offer at Nicholas P. Kondon, DMD or to schedule an appointment with Dr. Nicholas Kondon, please call our Concord, MA, office today.