The American Dental Association Recommends having a routine dental checkup performed every six months by a professional dentist like Dr. Tom Tetrick. This multi-stage outpatient appointment is designed to clean your teeth while also detecting any signs of tooth decay, periodontal disease, and oral cancers.
Early detection of oral and pharyngeal cancers is especially important for treatment success. The ADA and the American Cancer Society note that these cancers account for 2.9% of all cancers diagnosed in the United States and 1.6% of all cancer deaths. The 5-year relative survival rate for those with localized disease at diagnosis is 83%, compared with only 36% in patients where the cancer has metastasized.
It’s a good idea to let Dr. Tom Tetrick know about any potential oral cancer or pharyngeal cancer symptoms you have noticed. Early detection can significantly increase your chances of treatment success.
This might include a persistent pain in your mouth, swelling, or a lump in your cheek. Pharyngeal cancer symptoms could also include a persistent sore throat, or a feeling like something is stuck in the back of your mouth.
Should you notice any early signs of oral or pharyngeal cancer between your dental checkups you should not delay in seeking further diagnosis from Dr. Tom Tetrick.
If you live in Lincoln, Nebraska, and you have been experiencing symptoms of oral or pharyngeal cancer, you should call 402-423-1100 to schedule a dental checkup and cancer screening at Pine Ridge Dental.
