Oral Cancer Screenings
Signs & Symptoms of Oral Cancer
Oral cancer can often be hard to spot with the naked eye. However, you can still keep an eye out for the following symptoms and call us right away if you notice any of them:
- Sores on your tongue, gums, lips, or other soft tissues that will not heal
- Unexplained lumps on or beneath the surface of your soft tissue
- White or red lesions in your mouth
- Difficulty chewing or swallowing
- A constant feeling that something is stuck in your throat
- Ear pain
- A persistent sore throat
- Areas of your mouth that feel numb
What Does My Dentist Look for During an Oral Cancer Screening?
Oral cancer screenings are crucial for detecting early warning signs of cancer. Dentists can detect an estimated 84% of oral cancers in their early stages, making these screenings highly valuable.
Dr. Casañas will conduct a thorough examination of your entire mouth to look for any signs of cancerous or pre-cancerous tissue. This detailed exam helps determine if further investigation, such as a biopsy, is necessary.
If no issues are found, you can leave our office knowing your mouth is cancer-free. If symptoms are detected, we will develop a clear plan to restore your smile and health.
What Can I Expect During My Oral Cancer Screening?
Your oral cancer screening will involve a visual and physical examination of your oral cavity. One of our dentists will take a close look at your whole mouth, including your throat, tongue, lips, and face, for any abnormalities that could indicate cancer.
Next comes the physical exam, where they will feel along the lymph nodes in your neck and jaw to ensure that everything feels healthy. They may also gently rub around your jaw joints and ears to feel for any lumps or lesions that shouldn’t be there.