Boynton Beach Office:
Oral Cancer Screening as Part of Your Overall Health
Our office at Boynton Beach, FL is dedicated not only to your smile but also to your overall wellness. We take a holistic approach to your dental care in Boynton Beach, which includes an oral cancer screening as part of your regular exam. Like other types of cancer, oral cancer can be life-threatening if not diagnosed and treated early.
We at Modern Dental Smiles have the skills and tools to identify early signs and symptoms of oral cancer and pre-cancerous conditions. Although these symptoms may be caused by other, less serious problems, it is essential to visit our office to rule out the possibility of oral cancer.
The most common symptoms of oral cancer include:
- Red or white spots or sores anywhere in the mouth
- A sore that bleeds easily or fails to heal
- A lump, thickening, or rough area
- Pain, tenderness, or numbness in the mouth or on the lips
- Difficulty chewing, swallowing, speaking, or moving the jaw or tongue
How the Oral Cancer Screening Process Works
Our team at Modern Dental Smiles is trained in a fast, straightforward screening that involves examining your entire oral cavity, not just your teeth, to identify cancerous and precancerous conditions. In addition to a visual inspection of your mouth, we will also palpate the tissue of your mouth and throat to identify any abnormalities.
If we discover an area of concern at Boynton Beach, FL in Boynton Beach, we may conduct a simple test, such as a brush test, which gathers cells from a suspicious lesion in the mouth to be sent to a laboratory for evaluation. If this test returns atypical or positive results, we may suggest a biopsy.
In addition to receiving an oral cancer screening during your checkup at our office, there are many steps you can take to help prevent oral cancer.
- The most effective way is to avoid all tobacco products and consume alcohol only in moderation.
- Follow a healthy, balanced diet.
- Reduce your sun exposure and always use UV-A/B-blocking, sun-protective lotions on your skin and lips.
- During your next dental visit at Boynton Beach, FL in Boynton Beach, ask us to conduct an oral exam. Early detection of oral cancer can increase the likelihood of successful treatment.