Oral cancer prevention
Those who prevent are already one step ahead
Oral cancer can affect the lips, tongue, cheeks, floor of the mouth, palate, and throat. In its early stages, it often causes no pain and produces no visible signs.
It does not only affect those who smoke or drink. HPV, prolonged sun exposure, poor oral hygiene, and other factors can also play a role.
If you happen to notice one or more of these symptoms:
- A mouth ulcer that does not heal for more than two weeks
- A white or red patch in the mouth that does not go away
- Persistent discomfort in the tongue, cheeks, or palate
- A swelling or hardened area inside the mouth
- Difficulty swallowing
- Recurring ear pain
Book an appointment with a visual screening right away.
The numbers worth knowing
New cases of oral cancer each year in Italy.
Of oral cancers are linked to smoking.
HPV-related cancers,
a growing figure.
Early detection changes everything
When oral cancer is identified at an early stage, the treatment path is significantly more effective and often less invasive. This is why Bludental has chosen to make it accessible throughout the month of May.
What a professional sees that you cannot
Leukoplakia
White or whitish patches on the mucosa that cannot be scraped off. They do not always indicate a problem, but they require a clinical evaluation to rule out precancerous changes.
Erythroplakia
Red or red-velvety patches on the mucosa. Less common than leukoplakia, but statistically associated with a higher risk of lesions that warrant further investigation.
Persistent ulcers
An ulcer that does not heal within two weeks, even if painless, must be evaluated. The absence of pain is not a sign of benignity.
Mucosal alterations
Thickenings, areas with an unusual texture, or localized color changes that deviate from the normal anatomy of the mouth.
FAQ
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Does it hurt?
How long does it take?
The visual screening takes just a few minutes and is performed during your specialist dental checkup, without adding any significant time to your visit.
I don't have risk factors. Does it still make sense to do it?
Yes, absolutely. While smoking and alcohol increase the risk, a significant percentage of oral cancers occur in patients with no traditional risk factors, often linked to other variables like HPV. Prevention is recommended for everyone.
Doesn't my dentist already check everything?
What happens if you find something?
Finding an anomaly does not mean having a tumor. If a suspicious area is detected, our specialists will guide you through the next steps, recommending a follow-up check or directing you to specific diagnostic testing.
What is the difference between a basic and an advanced screening?
How long is this package available?
Stay one step ahead of cancer
When? Throughout the month of May
Where? At all Bludental centers nationwide
Book an appointment with a visual screening at your nearest Bludental center right away.