Oral Cancer Screenings Near You
Oral or mouth cancer can impact patients of every age. While engaging in certain behaviors may put some at a higher risk, genetics may also play a role in its development.
At Walnut Grove Smiles, we offer oral cancer screenings. If you’d like to learn more about this service or if you’d like to book a session with our dentist near you, reach out to us today!
How Oral Cancer Impacts Your Smile
All types of cancer are a serious matter, and oral cancer is no different. It can lead to several difficulties regarding your smile and the rest of your body; the severity and diversity of symptoms often depend on the stage of the cancer. If it is left untreated, especially for a prolonged period, it can cause the following:
- Changes in appearance – Lesions and abnormal tissue patches can cause your lips, tongue, or gums to change color
- Trouble speaking – Oral cancer that’s left to progress can end up impacting your tongue, which can interfere with your ability to talk clearly.
- Trouble eating – Since the structures that help you bite, chew, and swallow can become damaged, this can lead to weight loss.
- Tooth and gum problems – Bone deterioration, exposed tooth roots, and gum disease can arise due to radiation therapy.
- Dry mouth – Treatments for cancer can injure a patient’s salivary glands, leading to less saliva production and, by extension, dry mouth. A lack of fluid that washes away particles can contribute to tooth decay.
- Poor self-esteem – A beautiful smile helps us feel good about ourselves. Patients dealing with oral cancer may struggle with their confidence since the look and function of their teeth have changed.
If you or a loved one are dealing with these problems, it’s important to meet with our dentist in Langley. Upon inspecting your smile, they will be able to offer a more knowledgeable diagnosis and let you know the steps that need to be taken to address this condition. Don’t hesitate to speak up if you have questions or are worried about anything.
Steps of an Oral Cancer Screening
Like routine dental exams, oral cancer screenings take just a few minutes to perform.
First, our dentist will ask you about your dental/medical history to understand your background and whether any previous conditions or medications are influencing your oral health. Next, they will evaluate your oral cavity, examining your teeth, gums, cheeks, the top and bottom of your mouth, tongue, and lips. They will search for any atypical signs, such as lumps or lesions. Your dentist may also gently feel along your jaw for lumps or swollen glands.
X-rays are up next. These images enable your dentist to see how your underlying structures are faring. If anything of concern is found during the screening, a biopsy (tissue sample) is collected. This is sent to a medical lab for further analysis; you will be informed of the results once they are obtained. Should oral cancer be present, your dentist and doctor will work together to establish a customized treatment plan.
Our Team is at Your Service
Every patient who comes to Walnut Grove Smiles becomes an important member of our little family from the moment they walk through our doors. Our team is here to assist you on your oral health journey from beginning to end. So, if you’re looking to schedule an appointment for a cleaning, a filling, or you’re looking to get an oral cancer screening near you, please contact us!