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Oral Cancer Screening in Riverpark
At Clove Dental in Riverpark, your health and well-being are our top priorities. That’s why we offer comprehensive oral cancer screenings as part of our routine dental exams. Oral cancer is a serious condition, but when caught early, it is highly treatable. Regular screenings are crucial for early detection, and at Clove Dental, we make it easy and stress-free to take this important step toward maintaining your health. Schedule your oral cancer screening today and give yourself the peace of mind that comes with knowing you’re taking proactive measures to protect your oral health.
What is Oral Cancer Screening?
Oral cancer screening is a preventive dental exam that helps identify potential signs of cancer or precancerous conditions in the mouth, throat, and surrounding areas. During the screening, your dentist will examine your lips, gums, tongue, cheeks, throat, and roof and floor of your mouth for any abnormalities. The goal is to detect any signs of oral cancer or related conditions at an early stage, even before symptoms appear.
Oral cancer can develop in the tissues of the mouth or throat, and it’s often linked to certain risk factors such as tobacco use, heavy alcohol consumption, and human papillomavirus (HPV). With routine screenings, oral cancer can often be detected in its earliest stages, giving you the best chance for successful treatment.
Signs You Might Need an Oral Cancer Screening
- Unexplained Sores or Lesions: Persistent sores or ulcers in the mouth that do not heal within two weeks.
- White or Red Patches: White or red patches in the mouth or on the tongue, which may be a sign of precancerous tissue.
- Pain or Tenderness: Painful or tender spots in the mouth, jaw, or neck that don’t go away.
- Difficulty Swallowing or Chewing: Problems with swallowing, chewing, or moving the jaw or tongue could be a sign of oral cancer.
- Unexplained Bleeding: Unexplained bleeding in the mouth, gums, or throat.
- Changes in Voice or Speech: Hoarseness or a noticeable change in your voice that doesn’t improve.
- Lumps or Bumps: Lumps or bumps in the mouth, neck, or jaw area.
- Numbness or Swelling: A feeling of numbness or swelling in the mouth, lips, or throat.
If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms or if it’s simply been a while since your last dental check-up, schedule an oral cancer screening with Clove Dental in Riverpark today.
Benefits of Oral Cancer Screening
Oral cancer screening offers numerous benefits, especially when conducted regularly as part of your dental check-up:
Early Detection
Prevention of Serious Conditions
Peace of Mind
Convenience and Comfort
Oral Cancer Screening Procedure at Clove Dental
- Medical History Review: Your dentist will begin by reviewing your medical history and asking about any specific concerns you might have related to your oral health.
- Visual and Physical Exam: The dentist will visually examine the inside of your mouth, including your tongue, cheeks, gums, roof, and floor of the mouth. They’ll also look for any abnormalities or unusual signs like white or red patches, sores, or lumps.
- Palpation: Your dentist may gently palpate (feel) the tissues in your mouth, neck, and jaw to check for lumps, swelling, or tenderness.
- Possible Additional Testing: In some cases, if something suspicious is found, additional tests such as a biopsy or referral to a specialist might be recommended for further evaluation.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
While not all oral cancers can be prevented, adopting healthy habits such as not smoking, limiting alcohol consumption, using sunscreen on your lips, and practicing good oral hygiene can significantly reduce your risk.
