Wellington Office:
Oral Cancer Screening for Your Overall Wellness
At Modern Dental Smiles, we care about more than just your smile—we’re committed to your overall health and well-being. That’s why we take a holistic approach to dental care, which includes an oral cancer screening as part of your routine dental exam. Early detection of oral cancer can make all the difference in successful treatment, and we want to help catch any potential issues before they become serious.
Oral cancer, like other forms of cancer, can be life-threatening if not diagnosed and treated early. Our team is fully equipped to identify the early signs and symptoms of oral cancer and pre-cancerous conditions, even if they are caused by less severe problems. If you notice any of the following symptoms, it’s important to schedule an exam with us:
The most common symptoms of oral cancer include:
- Red or white spots or sores anywhere in your mouth
- A sore that bleeds easily or doesn’t heal
- A lump, thickening, or rough spot in your mouth
- Pain, tenderness, or numbness in the mouth or lips
- Difficulty chewing, swallowing, speaking, or moving your jaw or tongue
Our Comprehensive Oral Cancer Screening Process
When you visit us, we perform a thorough oral cancer screening to examine your entire oral cavity, not just your teeth. We’ll start by visually inspecting your mouth and feeling the tissue in your mouth and throat to detect any abnormalities. If we find any areas of concern, we may recommend a brush test. This simple procedure collects cells from a suspicious lesion to be analyzed in a laboratory.
If the results come back abnormal or indicate potential cancerous cells, we may suggest a biopsy for further analysis.
Steps You Can Take to Prevent Oral Cancer
While we provide routine oral cancer screenings during your dental check-ups, prevention is key. Here are some essential habits that can help reduce your risk of oral cancer:
- Avoid tobacco products entirely
- Drink alcohol in moderation
- Maintain a healthy, balanced diet
- Limit sun exposure, and always protect your skin and lips with UV-A/B-blocking sunscreen
Schedule Your Screening Today
During your next visit, ask us to perform an oral cancer screening. Early detection plays a crucial role in successful treatment, so don’t wait—your health is worth the extra precaution.