While oral cancer doesn't receive the same sense of urgency as other cancers, it can be equally fatal. In the United States, about one person dies every hour of this underestimated health threat. Although the percentage is small compared to more widely-known types of cancer, it still requires much attention. Since it is common to find oral cancer in the late stages, it is particularly deadly. By the time the condition has advanced, the survival odds are poor. Only six out of 10 patients will survive after five years of oral cancer treatment.
The good news is there is a fast and easy way to determine if you have oral cancer. With early detection and intervention, you can improve your likelihood of survival by over 80 percent. That is why regular oral health checkups save lives. To make life easier for our patients, The Art of Dental Wellness includes our Beverly Hills oral cancer screenings with routine cleanings and exams. There is nothing to fear; Dr. Hill performs these exams, and the process is quick and painless. Your oral cancer screening dentist looks for slight changes in the soft tissues inside the oral cavity and lips. If we discover anything abnormal, our dentist in Beverly Hills, CA, will extract a tissue sample and send it to an outside lab.
You can expect to undergo a thorough oral cancer screening in Beverly Hills as part of your biannual checkup. So, this is an additional reason to regularly visit our dental clinic. Typically, a mouth cancer screening involves both a visual and a tactical examination. Dr. Hill will look for strange sores or red or white patches. They will manually pull your tongue aside to further check for lumps or swellings.
So, if you notice anything new or suspicious inside your mouth and are in need of our oral cancer screening Beverly Hills dentist, Dr. Kerri Hill, will get you in to see us as soon as possible. Fortunately, most abnormalities are not cancerous, but some are malignant. Your best defense against oral cancer is early detection and treatment.
Oral cancer is more common than most people realize. In 2024, an estimated 58,450 people in the U.S. will be diagnosed with oral or oropharyngeal cancer, and sadly, around 12,230 will die from it. These cancers typically show up in areas like the tongue, throat, gums, and the floor of the mouth, though they can also appear on the lips or in the salivary glands.
While the average age for diagnosis is 64, it's not just something that affects older people — 1 in 5 cases happens in individuals under 55. Men are more than twice as likely as women to develop these cancers, with a lifetime risk of about 1 in 59 for men compared to 1 in 139 for women.
One concerning trend is the rise in HPV-related oropharyngeal cancers, which have been increasing by about 1% each year since the mid-2000s. This type of cancer behaves differently than other oral cancers, but both can be deadly if not caught early, making early screening absolutely vital.
Oral cancer can develop for various reasons. Common causes include:
Recognizing the signs of oral cancer early can make a significant difference in treatment outcomes. Some symptoms to watch for include:
If you experience any of these symptoms, it's essential to get screened promptly.
Early detection of oral cancer can make a life-saving difference. The key to successful treatment is catching the cancer in its earliest stages, when it's most treatable. Studies show that when oral cancer is detected early, the five-year survival rate is over 80%. However, if it's caught later, that survival rate can drop below 30%.
Regular oral cancer screenings are vital because many early signs of oral cancer, like small sores or discolored patches, can be easy to overlook. These routine exams help identify abnormalities before they become severe, giving you the best chance for a positive outcome. The quicker oral cancer is diagnosed, the more treatment options are available, often allowing for less invasive procedures with better results.
By incorporating oral cancer screenings into your routine dental visits, you can stay ahead of any potential risks, ensuring your peace of mind and protecting your long-term health.
Regular screenings offer numerous advantages:
An oral cancer screening at The Art of Dental Wellness is quick, simple, and painless. Dr. Hill conducts both a visual and tactile examination, looking for any irregularities, such as sores, discolored patches, or lumps. If something suspicious is found, a biopsy may be recommended for further evaluation.
At The Art of Dental Wellness, Dr. Kerri Hill understands how overwhelming a cancer diagnosis can be. With over 21 years of experience, she's not just committed to providing top-tier dental care — she's dedicated to offering compassionate, personalized support for each patient. Oral cancer screenings are an essential part of her practice, and her gentle, caring approach helps ease any concerns you may have.
Dr. Hill combines advanced technology with a deep understanding of patient needs, ensuring you receive the most accurate and timely diagnoses. Every patient receives VIP-level care, and you'll never feel like just a number in her practice. Whether it's a routine checkup or an oral cancer screening, she’s with you from start to finish, providing exceptional treatment and emotional support.
When you choose The Art of Dental Wellness, you're choosing a place where your health and well-being come first, in a welcoming environment that makes you feel truly cared for.
Kerri Hill, DDS, offers a uniquely all-encompassing, patient-focused dental treatment experience in Beverly Hills. The expert behind some of Hollywood’s best smiles, Dr. Hill’s propensity for empathy and meticulous care allow her to make patients’ dreams a reality. Begin building your best smile with a comprehensive consultation at The Art of Dental Wellness.
416 N Bedford Dr Suite 409, Beverly Hills, CA 90210
Mon - Thurs: 9am - 5pm
Fri, Sat & Sun: Closed
