Oral Cancer Screenings – Lincoln
Early Detection for Effective Treatment!
Your regular dental visits are about much more than just preventing cavities and gum disease. Nearly 54,000 Americans are diagnosed with oral oropharyngeal cancer each year. The good news is that when caught early on, patients are often able to make a full recovery. However, when action isn’t taken right away, this disease can turn deadly. If it has been a while since your last visit, give us a call to schedule your oral cancer screening in Lincoln!
Why Choose South Ridge Dental for Oral Cancer Screenings?
- Quick, Painless Screening
- We Welcome Dental Insurance
- Detect Cancer Early
Signs & Symptoms of Oral Cancer
In addition to professional cleaning twice per year, it is worthwhile to be aware of the signs and symptoms of oral cancer. This way, if you notice something that doesn’t feel right, you can bring it up with your dentist. Here are some signs to be on the lookout for.
- Persistent sore throat
- Vocal changes
- Difficulty chewing. Swallowing
- New lump or bump
- Sensation that something is stuck in your throat
- Sores or lesions that don’t heal within 10 days
Why Screen for Oral Cancer?
The mortality rate for oral cancer is relatively high. However, this isn’t because it is difficult to diagnose. It is usually because it is found too late for effective treatment. After some time, oral cancer can metastasize to other parts of the body and become much harder to overcome. When oral cancer is discovered and treated in its early stages, this increases the patient’s likelihood of survival by up to 90%! With a regular oral cancer screening, you can catch oral cancer sooner rather than later.
What to Expect During Your Oral Cancer Screening
Oral cancer screenings are quick, painless, and easy. You have likely had many of them completed in the past without even knowing. During your routine cleanings and checkups, we will thoroughly examine your oral cavity. We will take several minutes to look at your lips, the back of your throat, and your tongue. We will also check your cheeks and jaw for abnormalities. If we find anything of concern, we will either diagnose it and take further action or refer to a specialist for closer inspection. If we come across something suspicious, a brush test is completed. This is followed up by a biopsy if necessary. We may contact your primary care physician as well so they can be notified about the situation.