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Oral Cancer Screening – Rowlett, TX

Early Detection and Treatment Can Save a Life

Dental patient in chair

You already know that seeing your dentist for regular dental checkups every six months is important for the health of your teeth and gums. But did you know that one of these appointments just might save your life, too? A standard part of a dental checkup at Rowlett Dental Associates is an oral cancer screening. Like other cancer screenings, this one is designed to pinpoint early warning signs before the disease can develop and symptoms begin. Oral cancer is a highly treatable and often curable disease when found early during an oral cancer screening in Rowlett.

Signs and Symptoms of Oral Cancer

dentist and patient talking

Although these screenings happen twice each year at the dentist’s office, you should also be familiar with signs that may indicate oral or pharyngeal (throat) cancer.  That way, you can be on the lookout for them throughout the rest of the year. If you find anything of concern, then please don’t wait for your next appointment. Call Rowlett Dental Associates immediately to schedule a visit.

The early warning signs of oral cancer include:

  • A lump anywhere inside your mouth, including the insides of your cheeks and your tongue
  • A sore on your lips or in your mouth that has not healed in more than two weeks
  • A red or white patch of tissue that is either smooth or scaly
  • A spot on your tongue or in your mouth that feels numb
  • A sore throat or hoarseness that will not go away
  • A change in the way your bite feels or dentures that are suddenly uncomfortable
  • Difficulty chewing, swallowing or speaking
  • An earache, but no sign of infection

What Does My Dentist Look For During a Screening?

Smiling Couple

During a screening, the dentist in Rowlett inspects your entire mouth, searching for these symptoms and other telltale signs of potentially cancerous tissues. The dentist will also palpate your neck and jaw, checking for lumps or swollen glands. If anything suspicious is found, a biopsy can be ordered. This follow-up test will help us provide you with a concrete diagnosis and a clear plan of what steps to take next, if any are necessary.

What To Expect During My Screening?

Oral cancer screening is quick, simple and painless. And considering that dentists find about 84 percent of oral cancers early, the couple of minutes each screening takes is very worthwhile.

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