Protect Your Health with Oral Cancer Screenings at Caring Modern Dentistry

We prioritize your health with comprehensive oral cancer screenings. During your routine dental visit, our team carefully examines your mouth, tongue, gums, lips, and throat to detect early signs of cancer or precancerous changes. Early detection can make all the difference, leading to more effective treatments and greater peace of mind. This quick, non-invasive screening is a simple step toward safeguarding your smile and your future.

RISK FACTORS FOR ORAL CANCER

Oral cancer can affect anyone, and certain factors increase the likelihood of its development:

  • Tobacco Use: Cigarettes, cigars, pipes, and chewing tobacco increase the risk sixfold.
  • Excessive Alcohol Consumption: Chronic alcohol use compounds risk.
  • HPV Infection: Linked to an increasing number of oral cancer cases.
  • Prolonged Sun Exposure: A significant factor for lip cancer.
  • Unhealthy Diet and GERD: Poor nutrition and acid reflux may contribute to oral cancer.

ORAL CANCER SYMPTOMS TO WATCH FOR

We are committed to helping you stay vigilant about your oral health. Recognizing the warning signs of oral cancer early can make a critical difference in your treatment outcomes. Some symptoms to be aware of include:

  • Persistent sores, lumps, or thickened areas in the mouth that don’t heal.
  • Difficulty swallowing, speaking, or moving the jaw or tongue.
  • Unusual white or red patches inside the mouth or on the lips.
  • A persistent sore throat or the sensation of something being stuck in your throat.
  • Unexplained ear pain or significant weight loss without a clear cause.

If you notice any of these symptoms lasting more than a week, don’t wait. Early detection is key—schedule an evaluation with our expert team right away. Together, we can take proactive steps to protect your health and well-being.

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OUR APPROACH TO ORAL CANCER SCREENINGS

Your health is our priority, and our screenings are designed to provide thorough, proactive care. Here’s what you can expect:

  1. Visual ExaminationWe start by carefully inspecting your mouth, including your lips, tongue, cheeks, gums, and the roof and floor of your mouth. We look for any unusual lesions, discolorations, sores, or other visible abnormalities that might require closer attention.
  2. PalpationNext, we gently feel around your jaw, neck, and lymph nodes to identify any unusual lumps, swelling, or tenderness that could indicate deeper issues. This hands-on approach helps us detect changes that might not be immediately visible.
  3. Advanced Detection ToolsTo enhance our ability to spot irregularities, we use specialized tools such as dyes or lights that highlight suspicious tissues. These advanced technologies allow us to identify subtle changes that may go unnoticed during a standard exam, giving us a more comprehensive view of your oral health.
  4. Documentation and MonitoringIf we notice any areas of concern, we document them with detailed photos and notes. This helps us monitor changes over time and ensure consistent follow-up care. Early detection is key, and careful tracking helps us stay ahead of potential issues.

WHY CHOOSE CARING MODERN DENTISTRY IN REIDSVILLE?

We’re committed to providing exceptional care in a modern, welcoming environment where your comfort and well-being come first. With a strong focus on preventive care, we help you maintain optimal oral health and address concerns before they become serious. Whether you’re searching for ‘oral cancer screening near me’ or a trusted team that listens to your needs, you can count on us to deliver the personalized, professional care you deserve.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

What is oral cancer screening and why is it important?

A screening test for oral cancer is a quick and non-invasive examination performed by a dentist or doctor to detect signs of cancer or precancerous conditions in your mouth. Early detection significantly increases the chances of successful treatment and minimizes the need for invasive procedures. Regular screenings can help identify potential issues before symptoms even appear.

How is an oral cancer screening performed?

During an oral cancer screening, we examine the tissues of your mouth, including the lips, tongue, gums, cheeks, and throat. The screening may involve visual inspection, palpation to detect lumps or abnormalities, and special tools like screening dyes or lights to highlight suspicious areas.

Who should get an oral cancer screening?

Oral cancer screenings are recommended for everyone, but they are significant for individuals at higher risk. Those who use tobacco or alcohol, have a family history of cancer, are over the age of 40, or have been exposed to the human papillomavirus (HPV) should prioritize regular screenings.

Are oral cancer screenings painful?

No, oral cancer screenings are not painful. The procedure is quick, non-invasive, and typically performed during a routine dental visit. If additional testing is needed, such as a biopsy, you may experience minor discomfort, but it will be managed to ensure your comfort.

What are the common symptoms of oral cancer to watch for?

Common symptoms include:

  • Persistent mouth sores that do not heal
  • Unexplained lumps or swellings in the mouth, neck, or throat
  • White or red patches in the mouth
  • Difficulty swallowing, speaking, or moving the jaw or tongue
  • A sensation of something stuck in the throat
  • Unexplained ear pain or weight loss

In the United States alone, one adult dies every hour from oral cancers. When oral cancers are identified in initial stages, treatment can begin more quickly. In initial stages, treatment has a higher rate of success and is less invasive. In more advanced stages, oral cancers are more likely to have spread to other areas and need complex treatment.

Drs. Adams, Hodges, Nazziola, and Applebaum recommend having an oral cancer screening at least once each year. Regular screenings can help ensure early detection of any potential cancers.

During your oral cancer screening, we will check for any abnormalities. We will closely examine your mouth, throat, lips, gums, and tongue. Let us know about any potential symptoms you have experienced, including:

  • Pain or difficulty with speaking, swallowing, or moving your jaw or tongue
  • A sensation that something is caught in the back of your throat
  • Sore throat with no other sinus symptoms
  • Lumps or swellings in or around your mouth
  • Drastic weight loss
  • White or red patches in your mouth
  • Mouth sores that do not heal
  • Unexplained ear pain
  • Unexplained bleeding in your mouth

If you have experienced any of these symptoms for more than a week without improvement, call us immediately for an appointment.

Anyone may develop oral cancer, but there are certain factors that can increase your risks. Some of the most common include:

  • Being male (men are more likely to develop oral cancer than women)
  • Use of tobacco in any form (6 times more likely)
  • Genetic predisposition for oral cancers
  • Excessive or prolonged exposure to sun
  • Unhealthy diet
  • Excessive consumption of alcoholic beverages
  • Having gastro-esophageal reflux disease (GERD)

For more information on oral cancer screenings or to schedule an appointment, contact Caring Modern Dentistry in Reidsville, NC today.