The American Dental Association recommends having a regular dental checkup and cleaning performed every six months to maintain good oral health. To this end, every dental checkup administered at Clear Lake Dental & Associates is intended to address all aspects of a healthy mouth.

This starts with a thorough dental cleaning to remove any traces of hardened tartar. It also includes a brief examination for tooth decay and signs of gum disease and other oral health maladies. At the end of the checkup, Dr. James Kinsel will also conduct a basic screening for signs of oral or pharyngeal cancer.

It’s estimated by the ADA that one in 92 adults will develop some form of oral or pharyngeal cancer in their lifetime. While the average age of diagnosis is 62 years old, risk factors, like a family history of oral and pharyngeal cancer and tobacco use, lead to earlier development.

Be sure to let Dr. James Kinsel know about any potential oral cancer symptoms you’ve experienced. This might include a persistent pain in your mouth and swelling or a lump in your cheek. Pharyngeal cancer symptoms include a persistent sore throat or a feeling like something is stuck in the back of your mouth.

If you live in the Clearlake, California, area and you’re concerned about oral or pharyngeal cancer, you should call 707-994-9414 to schedule a checkup and screening at Clear Lake Dental & Associates.