Can Your Dentist in Northwest Oklahoma City Spot Cancer?

There are many reasons that people visit the dentist, but of all the reasons, oral cancer doesn’t seem to be of many patient’s concern. It really should be since the symptoms are so hard to notice in the early stages. That’s why it’s critical to have a professional examine your mouth at least every six months—maybe even more if you’re a high-risk dental patient.

But what are the early warning signs of mouth cancer? And how can you prevent the disease? Your dentist in Northwest Oklahoma City is here to provide information about increasingly common cancer below.

Signs of Oral Cancer

Oral cancer can affect anyone, although there are some people that have higher risks than others. People who smoke or use tobacco are significantly more likely to have oral cancer, especially when tobacco use is combined with heavy alcohol consumption—up to two thirds more of a chance of developing the disease!

Your general dentist will examine the soft tissues of your mouth for signs of oral cancer, but you should also pay attention to your mouth as well when you’re at home. If you do notice any abnormalities, be sure to communicate them to your dentist.

The early warning signs and symptoms of oral cancer include…

• Persistent sores, lumps, or bumps around or inside the mouth.
• A sore throat or a change in the tone of voice.
• Numbness that lasts in the mouth or around the lips.
• Abnormal swelling in or around the mouth.
• Lesions in the mouth—especially around or underneath the tongue.
• Swollen lymph nodes in the neck behind or around the ears.

Where to Get an Oral Cancer Screening

So you know oral cancer screenings are vitally important as you get older, but you’re not quite sure where to get one. In Northwest Oklahoma City, our dental practice performs regular screenings as well as biopsy of suspicious spots and treatment of oral cancer.

The oral cancer screening is a visual and tactile examination of your mouth, throat, lips, tongue, and cheeks. Your doctor will look out for bumps, lumps, and any other abnormalities that could point to the development of the disease. In the case that anything is noticed, it can be addressed then and there.

When was your last oral cancer screening? Regular examinations are key to the early detection that could save your life.

About Our Office

When you choose to visit Bluff Creek Dental, you can be confident that you’ll be cared and looked out for. Our goal is to help prevent problems, so the minute we notice anything out of the norm, we will be open with you and discuss treatment. Schedule an appointment for an oral cancer screening with your Northwest Oklahoma City dentist today!