PREVENTIVE DENTISTRY
Oral Cancer Screenings
Velscope oral cancer screenings are a free part of every preventive visit, and are a quick way to fortify your peace of mind. Through consistent exams, we can catch oral cancer early on, which gives us a better chance at treating it before it spreads. A routine oral cancer screening can even save your life!
Your Cave Creek dentist will examine your gums, tongue, and the rest of the soft tissues in your mouth, keeping an eye out for lesions and other abnormalities like lumps and discolorations. If there is anything that concerns us, we may recommend getting a biopsy, which will be analyzed by a specialist to determine the cause of the abnormality. Regular oral cancer screenings allow us to identify any potential problems before they become major issues.
During each hygiene visit, we conduct a thorough assessment of all the tissues in your mouth, including gums, cheeks, lips, tongue, and jaw. Many patients are surprised by the extensive area we examine during an oral examination. Regular screenings for soft tissues are equally important as professional dental cleaning.
Oral cancer can impact anyone, but tobacco users face a significantly higher risk compared to non-users. Chewing tobacco contains approximately 3000 different chemicals, including compounds found in pesticides and embalming fluid. Changes in cells beneath the surface may go unnoticed until they have progressed to a critical stage.
request an appointmentEarly Detection And Treatment Of Oral Cancer
Early detection and treatment of oral cancer can greatly improve your chances of a speedy and full recovery. According to the American Cancer Society, there are approximately 30,000 cases of oral cancer diagnosed each year, resulting in about 7,000 deaths. If we notice any unusual changes in your mouth tissue, we may recommend a biopsy and microscopic analysis by a qualified laboratory.
Many non-cancerous changes can occur in your mouth’s tissue, such as oral warts and autoimmune lesions. Our dentists utilize their expertise in oral pathology to assess any abnormalities and determine whether they should be monitored or removed.
We understand that tobacco addiction can be incredibly powerful, even for those who prioritize their health. If you are determined to quit, we are here to support you in your journey. Contact us to speak with our dentists about the strategies and resources we offer to help you overcome this habit.
