Oral Cancer Screenings – Tyler, TX
Early Detection for Immediate Treatment
Your regular dental visits are about much more than preventing cavities and gum disease. Approximately 54,000 Americans are diagnosed with oral or oropharyngeal cancer each year. Fortunately, when caught early on, most cases are entirely treatable, and many patients are able to make a full recovery. However, when action isn’t taken, the disease can often prove deadly. If it’s been a while since your last visit, give us a call to schedule your next appointment where you can get your oral cancer screening in Tyler.
Why Choose Stansbury Dental for Oral Cancer Screenings?
- Quick, Painless Screening
- Friendly Dental Team
- Dental Insurance Welcome
Signs and Symptoms of Oral Cancer?
In addition to professional screenings twice a year, by being aware of the signs and symptoms of oral cancer, you can know when it’s a good idea to address something with your dentist. Here are the things you should be looking out for:
- Persistent sore throat
- Changes in your voice
- Difficulty chewing or swallowing
- A new lump or bump
- Sensation that something’s stuck in your throat
- Sores or lesions that don’t heal within 10 days
What Can You Expect During Your Oral Cancer Screening?
Oral cancer screenings are quick, painless, and easy. In fact, you’ve probably had many of them completed before without even knowing! During your routine cleaning and checkups, Dr. Stansbury will thoroughly inspect your oral cavity. He will take several minutes to look at your lips, the back of your throat, and your tongue. He will also check your neck and jaw for any abnormalities. If Dr. Stansbury finds anything of concern, he will either diagnose it and take further action or refer you to a specialist for a closer look.
What Do We Look for During a Screening?
During your screening, Dr. Stansbury looks for asymmetries, bumps, swollen areas, red or white patches, ulcerations, or tissue that is thicker than usual. He will also review your medical history and identify any of the following risk factors:
- Heavy drinking
- Tobacco use
- Human Papillomavirus (HPV)
- Advanced age
- Frequent sunburns
- Weak immune system
Modern treatment methods for oral cancer are more effective than ever before, but early detection is the best chance of making a full recovery!