Oral Cancer Screenings in Dallas, TX

Oral cancer screenings are important because they help detect abnormalities in your mouth and throat, including cancerous cells. The earlier that cancer is detected, the easier it will be to treat it successfully. That is why scheduling regular oral cancer screenings with our dentist at Deep Ellum Advanced Dentistry, Dr. Wing, every six months is essential.

During your oral cancer screening, our dentist will visually examine your mouth and throat for signs of cancer. He will look for red or white patches or sores on your lips, gums, tongue, cheeks, palate, and tonsils. Our dentist will also check your neck, head, face, and lymph nodes for lumps or other abnormalities. If our dentist spots any abnormalities, he will likely order additional tests to determine the exact cause.

The Causes of Oral Cancer

Oral cancer is caused by the uncontrolled growth of abnormal cells in the mouth, usually in the lips, tongue, cheeks, gums, palate, or throat. These cells can invade healthy tissues and spread to the lymph nodes in the neck.

Some lifestyle choices can increase your risk of developing oral cancer, such as smoking and excessive alcohol consumption. Other risk factors include a poor diet, HPV infection, and a family history of the disease.

The Symptoms of Oral Cancer

• A sore in the mouth that doesn’t heal
• White patches on the gums, tongue, or lining of the mouth
• Red or white spots inside the mouth
• Difficulty swallowing or chewing
• Pain when speaking or moving the jaw or tongue
• Numbness in the oral region
• Swelling around the face
• Loose teeth
• Sores on the face, neck, or lips
• Lumps or thickening of tissue in the mouth
• Unexplained bleeding in the mouth

The Significance of Oral Cancer Screenings

Early Detection Saves Lives 

Early detection of oral cancer significantly improves the chances of successful treatment and complete recovery. Regular screenings in Dallas help catch potential issues before they progress to more advanced stages wherein the disease is harder to treat.

Rapid Intervention

If an abnormality is identified during an oral cancer screening, further diagnostic tests and treatment can be initiated promptly. This can prevent the cancer from spreading and becoming more challenging to manage.

Minimally Invasive Treatments

Detecting oral cancer at an early stage often allows for less invasive treatment options, resulting in better outcomes and reduced impact on your quality of life.

Risk Assessment

Regular screenings help our dentist in Dallas, TX identify risk factors that might make you more susceptible to oral cancer. This information enables Dr. Wing to provide tailored advice on preventive measures and lifestyle changes.

Simple and Painless

Oral cancer screenings are quick, non-invasive, and painless. They are usually conducted as part of routine dental checkups, making them an easy and essential component of your oral care routine.

Oral cancer screenings offer an opportunity for early detection, which can make all the difference in effectively treating and managing this potentially devastating condition. For the best care, visit Deep Ellum Advanced Dentistry at 3112 Main St., Dallas, TX 75226, or call (214) 466-6610.