Oral cancer screening west kelowna
When should you get an oral cancer screening by a holistic dentist in West Kelowna?
Oral cancer is not enough discussed in conversations around dentistry and oral health. The lack of education and awareness is concerning. However, we’re here to help clarify a few things about when and why you should be screened through a holistic dentist approach in West-Kelowna!
Based on research by the Moffitt Cancer Center, people over the age of 20 should get an oral cancer screening at least every three years and people over the age of 40 should be screened annually, whether symptomatic or not.
Being screened is especially critical for people with high-risk behaviors, lifestyles and pre-existing conditions including:
- Smoking or chewing tobacco
- High alcohol consumption on a frequent basis
- A diet low in fruits and vegetables
- Extra body weight
- Human papillomavirus (HPV)
- A family history of cancer
According to the American Cancer Society, most people diagnosed with oral cancer are aged 55+ and oral cancer is approximately twice as common in men as it is in women.
As it currently stands, oral cancer develops far less commonly in people under the age of 55. While this may be the case, it’s totally worth your time to receive annual screenings.
Oral cancer screenings in Kelowna are not usually time consuming and can offer a lot of value to your health. In alignment with our holistic dentistry values, we emphasize that early prevention and awareness is key! Even if you’re not in the 55+ age window.
You have likely been screened before without even knowing it. Many dentists preform routine screenings during regular cleanings and other types of treatments.
However, this is not always the case and while it is your dentist’s duty to ensure your oral health is in top condition, it’s also important to be an advocate for yourself — especially when it comes to your health.
Never hesitate to ask us to perform an oral cancer screening and to open up that channel of communication. In taking a holistic dentistry approach , we have ensured that you can easily book an oral cancer screening in Kelowna with us today. New patients are welcome.
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How is oral cancer screening done?
Thanks to advancements and developments in technology, oral cancer screening is now available, safe, and effective.
The Velscope Oral Cancer Screening System incorporates fluorescence visualization technology to help detect abnormal tissue growth. They cost $50 and take only 3-5 minutes.
It’s important to note that the Velscope System is not a diagnostic device. It’s used to detect abnormal tissue growth. If we are suspicious of the tissue detected, a surgical biopsy will be conducted by an oral surgeon. Only when an oral pathologist reads the results of this surgical biopsy can a diagnosis be made. Make an appointment today.
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What patients say about Kelowna Holistic Dentist Dr. Shauna Palmer
[These are actual Google Reviews]
Rob C.
Easily the best experience I have had at a dental clinic. From start to finish, the entire team works their hardest to make the entire process as comforting and informative as possible...
Farah C.
Dr. Palmer is very thorough and detailed. I generally tend to avoid going to the dentists because of not so positive past experiences. However, I have been very impressed ...
Jody V.
I have never in my life been so impressed with a dentist's office. I chose this practice when I moved here because it spoke to being holistic, and holistic it is ...
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What are the symptoms of oral cancer?
In order to prevent late detection, it’s important for you to understand what symptoms to look out for in mouth cancer:
- Swollen gums
- Loose teeth or ill-fitting dentures
- Difficulty moving jaw or tongue
- Numbness and tenderness in the mouth
- White or red patches in mouth
- Drastic weight loss
- Chronic sore throat
- Sores that won’t heal
- Bleeding mouth
What are the causes of oral cancer?
Although it can happen to anyone, some are more at risk than others
- Smoking
- Consumption of Alcohol
- Sun Exposure
- History of cancer in the family
- Human Papillomavirus (HPV)
If you experience any of the symptoms listed above, please contact us today and ask about an oral cancer screening. We can check for multiple reasons why you may be experiencing these symptoms and help find a solution or treatment.
Make an appointment today
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Why choose Dr. Shauna Palmer?
Switch to a holistic approach
- End Holistic Dentistry confusion
- Don’t continue unhealthy dentistry
- Avoid putting toxic chemicals into your body
- Stop treating symptoms only, treat the causes
- Forget about a one size fits all approach to dentistry
Live healthier, happier and longer
- Take control over what goes into your mouth and body
- Strive for the oral health you’ve always wanted
- Find clarity about healthy, natural, holistic dentistry
- Enjoy feeling better about yourself
- Choose a healthier life!
Make an appointment today!
Health & Beauty Dentistry
- Dr. Shauna Palmer
- 2446 Main Street, West Kelowna, BC, V4T 1Z1
- 250-768-3984
