Today, oral cancer is not just something that tobacco users should be concerned with. It can be painless and go unnoticed, making early detection important. Coming in for your dental visits twice a year can substantially increase a successful diagnosis. This is why oral cancer screenings are an important part of our dental exams. If we detect anything out of the ordinary, we can evaluate it further with a biopsy procedure. A biopsy can be done easily in our office and sent out to a lab for pathology results.
If any of the following symptoms are present for more than 14 days, you should see your dentist immediately. These symptoms include:
- An ulcer or sore on your tongue or in your mouth
- Discolored tissue
- A lump in your mouth, cheek, neck, throat or jaw
- Hoarse voice
