Preventative Oral Cancer Screening in Clawson, MI

In the United States alone, more than 30,000 cases of oral cancer are diagnosed each year. The good news is that oral cancer can easily be diagnosed with an annual exam and effectively treated when caught in its earliest stages. Oral cancer screenings are an important part of a regular dental exam. They involve a careful examination of the inside of your mouth to detect signs of cancer and other potential issues.

At My Family Dental in Clawson, MI, our dentists are specifically trained to spot the early warning signs of oral cancer with proper screening techniques. If we detect cancer or any other oral health concerns, we can work with you to create a treatment plan that ensures you get the best care possible. It’s all part of our patient-centered approach to dental care that takes your personal risk factors and needs into consideration. To start taking this proactive step towards better oral health, contact us to schedule an appointment today.

What We Look for During an Oral Cancer Screening

Oral cancer can present in a variety of ways. The dentists at My Family Dental in Clawson, MI, are trained to detect this type of cancer as early as possible. The following signs will be investigated during your oral cancer screening:

Discolored Patches

Red patches or sores on the floor of the mouth or the tongue or white or pink patches anywhere in the mouth that fail to heal can indicate cancer.

Sores

Slow-healing sores in the mouth that bleed easily can be indicative of cancer.

Leukoplakia

A hardened, lightly raised lesion that is typically white or gray can appear anywhere inside the mouth. It can be cancerous or may become so if not treated.

Lumps

Lumps or the general thickening of tissue anywhere in the throat or mouth can signal potential problems, including oral cancer.

Whether you’re due for a dental exam or not, if you’re experiencing any of these symptoms or others that you find concerning, contact our office to schedule an appointment.

Frequently Asked Questions About Oral Cancer

If you suspect you may have oral cancer, you may have many questions about what to do next. The experienced dental team at My Family Dental in Clawson, MI, has put together a list of our most commonly asked questions about how to treat, detect, and prevent oral cancer. If you have any other questions, share them at your next appointment. We will do our best to answer them.

How often should you have an oral cancer screening?

The American Cancer Society recommends individuals between the ages of 20 and 40 receive an oral cancer screening every three years. Over the age of 40, annual screenings are recommended. However, your dentist can recommend a different screening timeline based on your individual needs and risk factors.

Do all dentists screen for oral cancer?

At My Family Dental in Clawson, MI, oral cancer screening is part of the traditional examination a patient receives during a regular visit with our dentists. However, if you’re not sure if we offer a particular service, you can ask your dentist during your initial consultation. If you require greater care than we can provide, we will refer you to a specialist, if needed.

What does an oral cancer screening involve?

An oral cancer screening is an exam conducted to identify indications of cancer or precancerous conditions in the mouth. The screening includes an examination of the lips, tongue, cheeks, roof of the mouth, and back of the throat to check for signs of cancer and other concerns.

Schedule Your Oral Cancer Screening Today!

Your oral health relies on more than regular brushing and flossing. That’s why, at My Family Dental in Clawson, MI, oral cancer screenings are included in our routine dental exams. It’s part of our patient-centered approach to care. To start taking proactive steps towards a healthy smile, contact us to schedule an appointment today.

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