Great strides have been made in treating cancer, but the fact remains that early detection by screenings are crucial to improving cancer survivability. An excellent example is Dr. Papanicolaou and his Pap smear test which has decreased cervical cancer by 80%! Unfortunately, oral cancer rates have not improved in decades.

It has been known for a long time that tobacco and alcohol increase risk of getting mouth cancer, but what about infection from a virus that gives no symptoms? 70% of oral cancers are linked to Human Papilloma Virus (HPV), which is the same virus associated with so many cervical cancers. The same cancer which has decreased 80% as a result of the Pap smear.

An oral cancer screening is much quicker and easier than a Pap smear. In fact, you have already had an oral cancer screening if you have been to Eldon Family Dentistry! Every exam starts this way, so get scheduled today.