Oral Cancer Screening

Every time you come for your semi-annual oral exam with the Center for Family & Implant Dentistry, you will get an oral cancer screening. Patients who skip their dental exams can face oral cancer that remains undetected. It’s vital that you get these regular dental exams to catch signs of oral cancer as early as possible.

Detecting Oral Cancer Early

It’s always important to discover any type of cancer early so that it can be treated right away. If it can be caught early, oral cancer is one of the types among the most curable. This is why we include an oral cancer screening in each of your dental exams.

It’s easy for patients to get an oral cancer screening, and it is completely painless. This screening is a vital part of your oral health and can affect your health overall. During your screening, Dr. MacConnell will look for anything in your mouth that seems abnormal. He will inspect your gums, cheeks, and your tongue for bumps, lesions, or other abnormal signs that you could have oral cancer.

The dentist will also discuss your health history and ask you whether you have had any sore areas or engage in activities that make oral cancer more common. He will also check other signs on your face and head that you may have this disease. If he finds any issues, he will recommend you see your doctor to discuss those signs.

Oral Cancer Signs

Cancer can develop in any area of your mouth. It can form in the throat, sinuses, salivary glands, pharynx, lips, larynx, cheeks, gums, or tongue.

If you experience patches, sores, or lumps in your mouth, these can be signs of the disease. You might have loose teeth for no obvious reason. You feel like there’s something in your throat, a sore throat, or sound hoarse. Some patients get white or red lesions that form on the lips or around the mouth. Some have swollen gums or have tenderness or numbness in the mouth. Patients may have a difficult time moving their jaw or tongue for no reason.

When these symptoms last a long time, they can be signs of oral cancer. If you suffer from any of them, you need to get an oral cancer screening as soon as you can.

Proactive Dentistry Solutions for Better Health

Early detection gives you the best chances of a positive outcome. If you have any of these symptoms, call the Center for Family & Implant Dentistry in Bluff City or Kingsport to make an appointment for a screening. Don’t wait to find out if you have this condition, as early intervention is crucial.