How is Oral Cancer Diagnosed?

 Nobody wants to hear they have oral cancer. The good news is that preventive care includes oral cancer screenings to detect the early stages of this disease, potentially saving your life. That’s why it is essential to keep up with your routine checkups and cleanings twice a year so that we can identify any problem before it progresses.
What Are the Symptoms of Oral Cancer?
Oral cancer can occur in different areas of the mouth including the tongue, lips, gums, cheeks, the roof or floor of the mouth, in the tonsils, and in the salivary glands.
In the earliest stages of oral cancer, there are often no signs of symptoms. However, routine dental checkups can help identify early signs. Some signs and symptoms include red or red and white patches on the lining of the mouth or tongue, ulcers or sores that do not heal, persistent swelling, lumps or thickening of the skin or the lining of the mouth, or pain when swallowing.
Symptoms may also include a painful tongue, jaw pain or stiffness, a hoarse voice, or a sensation that something is stuck in the throat. These symptoms do not necessarily indicate oral cancer but should be examined to rule out any potential problems.
How Is Oral Cancer Diagnosed?
First, we will perform a physical exam to look for abnormalities including sores and white patches. If we find a suspicious area, we may remove a sample of cells for laboratory in a procedure called a biopsy. The sample is examined for cancer or precancerous changes that may indicate future cancer.
If cancer is diagnosed, we will work to determine the stage of the disease and will determine the best course of treatment. We cannot begin to overemphasize the need for keeping up with your routine checkups because identifying oral cancer in its early stages allows for much better chances of full recovery.
Contact us at May Conte D.D.S. Cosmetic, Implant, and Family Dentistry to learn more about oral cancer screening. Even if you are not experiencing symptoms, this quick and simple procedure can potentially be a life saver. We are committed to keeping your smile healthy for a lifetime. Call us at 661-505-2926. You may also visit www.maycontedds.com.