Oral Cancer Screening
What is an Oral Cancer Screening?
Oral cancer can affect a person at any time in their life. Unfortunately, genetics and certain lifestyle habits, like smoking and chewing tobacco, can increase the chance of developing oral cancer. With the help of a screening, our doctor can detect cancer so that treatment is started early on if it is found. Oral cancer screenings take just minutes and are noninvasive.
Why would you need an Oral Cancer Screening?
All adults should have an oral cancer screening at least once every year. The screening checks for abnormal tissue and lumps around the mouth. Cancer can sometimes be found underneath the tongue and on the insides of the cheeks. These areas are checked thoroughly during the exam. If oral cancer is detected, we will work with you to receive adequate treatment as early as possible.
What makes you a good candidate for an Oral Cancer Screening?
Everyone is a good candidate for an oral cancer screening. Even if you don’t smoke or chew tobacco and even if cancer does not run in your family, you should still have an oral cancer screening performed once a year. The procedure is noninvasive and requires just a visual check that can be done at the time of your bi-annual checkup appointment. Our doctor will provide you with this screening in a calm, comfortable manner.
What can you expect during an Oral Cancer Screening?
After you have had your bi-annual cleaning, our doctor will come in and perform an exam. The exam checks for signs of decay and other dental problems. Once this check is finished, we will examine the mouth for signs of abnormal tissue. Oral cancer can sometimes appear as white plaque-like tissue in the mouth or red lesions. Our doctor will check around the entire mouth, including underneath the tongue and on the insides of the cheek. If we detect cancer, we will work directly with you to find the treatment option that’s right for you. Early detection is crucial in stopping the spread of oral cancer.
If you need an oral cancer screening or want to ask questions regarding this procedure, call our office and our office staff will be happy to help you.