Oral Cancer Screenings – Lynchburg, VA
Proactively Protect Your Oral Health
Oral cancer can be deadly, but when it’s caught in its earliest stages, the disease is usually very treatable. That’s why your family dentist in Lynchburg performs an oral cancer screening during every routine checkup and cleaning appointment! These screenings are quick and simple, making them very accessible for anyone worried about concerning lumps, bumps, or other abnormalities. Contact our office to schedule your visit and proactively protect your oral health.
Why Choose Us for Oral Cancer Screenings?
- Experienced & Attentive Dental Team
- Dental Insurance Friendly Office
- Advanced Technology Improves Diagnosis
Signs and Symptoms of Oral Cancer
Possible signs and symptoms of oral cancer include:
- Difficulties with chewing or swallowing
- Tongue numbness
- Oral sores that don’t heal after two weeks
- White, red, speckled, or thickened areas of tissue
- Lumps or bumps inside the mouth, jaw, or neck
These abnormalities can also be associated with other, relatively benign conditions. A cold sore, for example, can look similar to an oral cancer bump to the untrained eye. If you’re ever unsure about your symptoms, please don’t hesitate to give our team a call so we can help you diagnose and address the issue.
What Do Dentists Look for During Oral Cancer Screenings?
To identify an oral abnormality during an oral cancer screening, a dentist will visually examine your mouth for common signs of the disease. They may also touch suspicious areas to test the texture of the tissue or gently palpate your neck and jaw. If they ask you about your health history, please be honest. Certain factors can increase your risk of oral cancer, such as your age and lifestyle habits like smoking.
Since an official oral cancer diagnosis often requires a tissue sample, your family dentist in Lynchburg will be looking for any concerning symptoms that should be investigated further. If we ask you to come back for a follow-up or refer you to a specialist, don’t panic – this doesn’t necessarily mean that you have oral cancer. It’s just best to be on the safe side so we can provide prompt treatment if necessary.
What Can I Expect During My Screening?
The oral cancer screening process is simple and noninvasive. Many of our patients don’t even realize we conduct them as part of routine checkup and cleaning appointments! You can expect one of our skilled dentists to examine your lips, mouth, tongue, and throat. Thanks to our intraoral camera, you’ll be able to see exactly what they see. After the exam, they’ll review their findings with you and advise you on what next steps to take, if any are necessary.