{"id":822,"date":"2025-03-28T19:12:30","date_gmt":"2025-03-28T19:12:30","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.premierdentalcareva.com\/blog\/?p=822"},"modified":"2025-04-22T19:13:19","modified_gmt":"2025-04-22T19:13:19","slug":"mouth-matters-why-oral-cancer-screenings-are-important","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.premierdentalcareva.com\/blog\/mouth-matters-why-oral-cancer-screenings-are-important\/","title":{"rendered":"Mouth Matters: Why Oral Cancer Screenings Are More Important Than You Think"},"content":{"rendered":"
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\"Patient<\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n

While most people visit the dentist for cleanings or the occasional cavity, few realize that these appointments<\/a> also offer a chance to perform other important tasks. One of the most unsung of these is screening for oral cancer, a potentially life-threatening condition that can spread unnoticed. April is Oral Cancer Awareness Month, so it\u2019s time to highlight oral cancer as the serious health issue it is and teach patients why screenings matter.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n

What Is Oral Cancer?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cancer is characterized by uncontrolled mutations of cells that turn malignant and spread to surrounding systems. Oral cancer, specifically, develops in the mouth or throat, including the lips, tongue, cheeks, roof of the mouth, or tonsils. Because it can take so many different forms and may progress silently, self-diagnosis can be extremely difficult.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

What Should I Watch For?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Even though some of the early signs of oral cancer can be subtle, it\u2019s important to pay attention to changes in your mouth. If you notice any of the following, call your dentist and schedule a screening immediately:<\/p>\n\n\n\n