Oral Cancer Screening
Oral Cancer Screening
Farmington Hills & Shelby Township
Oral cancer screenings are an essential component of oral health maintenance. Our dentists at Farmington Hills and Shelby Township are trained to spot the signs and symptoms of oral cancer at Assaf Dental. During routine examinations, we thoroughly examine the mouth, including the tongue, gums, and cheeks, in search of abnormal tissue growth or changes. If any abnormalities are identified, we may suggest additional testing. Which may include a biopsy, to determine the presence of cancer. Regular oral cancer screenings can increase the likelihood of early diagnosis, leading to more effective treatment outcomes.
What Is Oral Cancer Screening?
Screening for oral cancer is a diagnostic process for identifying potential oral cancer cases. Our dentists or oral surgeons can conduct this type of screening, which includes checking the tongue, gums, cheeks, and other soft tissues in the mouth. In order to detect any anomalies or changes in the tissue that can suggest the existence of cancer, oral cancer screenings are performed.
Our dentist will first perform a visual examination of your mouth to check for signs of abnormal growth or changes in the tissue that could indicate oral cancer. We would look for things like discoloration, bumps, sores that won’t heal, or anything else that seems out of the ordinary. We might also use a specialized light or other diagnostic instruments to help spot any risk factors.
When our dentists perform a clinical examination, they may suggest a biopsy if they notice any abnormalities. In order to diagnose oral cancer, our doctors may do a biopsy, in which a small piece of tissue is surgically taken from your mouth and then inspected under a microscope and at a lab.
Screening for oral cancer is a vital element of regular dental care. As it increases the likelihood of catching the disease at an early stage when it is most treatable. You should get your annual screening at Assaf Dental for checkups and signs of oral cancer.
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- Dental Cleaning
- Periodontal Therapy
- Dental Sealants
- Sports Mouth guard
- Nightguards for Bruxism
- Oral Cancer Screening
- Fluoride Treatment
- Pediatric Dentistry
- Emergency dental care
- Root Canal Treatment
- Tooth Extraction
- Dental Bridge
- Dental Sealants
- Dental Implants
- Dentures & Partials
- Dental Crown
- Tooth Filling
- Veneers
- Dental bonding
- Teeth Whitening
- Gum Contouring
- Facial Rejuvenation
- Invisalign
- Braces
- Teeth Retainer
Why Is Oral Cancer Screening Important?
Screening for oral cancer is important for multiple reasons.
Oral cancer screenings are important for catching any unusual growths or changes in the mouth before they become serious. It can be hard to spot oral cancer in the early stages because it doesn’t always show any symptoms. But by doing regular screenings, we can find it early and make treatment more likely to work.
If cancer is found early, it is easier to treat and our patients have a better chance of recovering faster. But if the cancer is not found until it’s in a later stage, it becomes harder to treat and your prognosis for the patient may be worse.
Oral cancer can also affect your quality of life. Treatments like surgery, radiation therapy, or chemotherapy can be painful and have long-term side effects. If the cancer is found early, you don’t have to go through these more painful procedures.
Additionally, oral cancer can put you at risk for other health problems like heart disease, stroke, and breathing problems. By doing regular screenings, these health problems can be found early and stopped before they become serious. Overall, oral cancer screenings are an important part of keeping your mouth healthy.
The Oral Cancer Screening Process
Assaf Dental’s oral cancer screening is a simple, straightforward process that looks for any unusual growths or changes in the mouth’s tissue.
In the first step of the screening process, our dentist looks at your mouth to see if there are any abnormal growths or changes in the tissue. This could mean looking for spots that are discolored or raised, sores that don’t heal, or other strange signs.
During the screening process, Assaf Dental may use special technology or methods, like fluorescence visualization, which uses a special light to show any abnormal cells in the mouth.
We also offer regular follow-up care and treatment option for our patients who have been diagnosed with oral cancer, in addition to screening. This could mean surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, or just keeping an eye on our patient to make sure cancer doesn’t come back.
Who Should Get An Oral Cancer Screening?
If you are more likely to get oral cancer, you should think about getting screened for it. This includes if you use tobacco, drink too much alcohol, have a history of getting too much sun, or have a family history of oral cancer. Oral cancer screenings are also important for you if you have sores that won’t heal or other strange changes in your mouth or throat. As part of a regular dental checkup, it’s a good idea to get a test for oral cancer. But if you are at high risk should think about getting checked more often. It’s always best to talk to our dentists to figure out the right screening schedule for you.
What Happens If Oral Cancer Is Detected During A Screening?
If we conduct an oral cancer screening and discover cancer, we will most likely refer you to an oral and maxillofacial surgeon or a head and neck oncologist for further assessment. The next step is a biopsy, in which a pathologist removes a small piece of the questionable tissue for microscopic analysis. If the biopsy reveals cancer, further examinations may be performed to establish the disease’s stage and inform further treatment.
Oral cancer treatment options include both surgical removal and non-invasive procedures like radiation and chemotherapy. The stage of cancer, your general health, and your preferences will all be taken into account. As our healthcare team works with you to determine the most effective course of therapy. Having oral cancer screenings on a regular basis can significantly increase the likelihood of a positive outcome.
How Early Is Oral Cancer Detected?
Oral cancer can be detected in its early stages through regular dental exams and screenings. Which may include visual inspections of the mouth and tongue, as well as palpation of the jaw and neck. Additionally, certain risk factors, such as tobacco use and heavy alcohol consumption, may prompt our dentists to perform additional screenings. If any suspicious growths or abnormalities are found, a biopsy may be performed to confirm or rule out the presence of cancer. It is important to catch oral cancer early as it can be more difficult to treat in its later stages.
The Importance of Oral Cancer Screening for Early Detection and Treatment
Cancers of the oral cavity, which can involve the tongue and throat, are a major cause of death and illness, affecting tens of thousands of individuals annually. Screenings for oral cancer are crucial because they increase the likelihood of full recovery when the disease is caught and treated early.
If you have a history of tobacco use, excessive alcohol intake, or a family history of oral cancer, you should get screened for the condition on a regular basis. To give you the best possible chance of surviving oral cancer, we must detect it at its earliest stages.
Don’t put off taking charge of your oral health any longer; contact Assaf Dental today to arrange an appointment for an oral cancer screening.
Frequently Asked Questions
Oral cancer screening is a procedure in which healthcare experts look for indicators of cancer in the mouth. This can include inspecting the mouth for abnormal growths or changes in the color or texture of the tissue. Regular tests for oral cancer are vital since early discovery increases the chances of successful treatment.
The cost of oral cancer screening varies depending on your insurance coverage and where the test is performed. In general, most insurance plans cover the screening. For further information on the cost, contact your insurance provider or Assaf Dental to get screened.
Oral cancer screening is typically neither painful nor unpleasant. Our healthcare professional will examine the inside of your mouth with a small mirror and light, and may also use their fingertips to feel for any odd lumps or growths. During the screening, some people may feel mild discomfort, but it should not be painful.
The frequency of oral cancer tests varies according to age, overall health, and personal risk factors. Most adults are advised to receive an oral cancer screening at least once a year. If you are at a higher risk of developing oral cancer, your doctor may advise you to get more frequent screenings.
Oral cancer screening is typically regarded as a risk-free technique with few hazards or adverse effects. As with any medical procedure, there is always the possibility of complications or unpleasant responses. If you have any concerns or questions about oral cancer screening, you should speak with our experts.
Mouth cancer, also known as oral cancer, often begins in the mouth or throat cells. It can appear anywhere in the mouth. It can also affect the salivary glands, the pharynx, and the larynx. Tobacco use, heavy alcohol intake, and a diet poor in fruits and vegetables are all risk factors for oral cancer. Early detection and treatment can enhance recovery chances.
There are several early signs of oral cancer that you should look out for before going for an oral cancer screening:
- Sores or lesions in the mouth that do not heal within 2 weeks
- White or red patches in the mouth
- Persistent pain or discomfort in the mouth or throat
- A feeling of something being stuck in the throat
- Difficulty or pain when swallowing or speaking
- Swelling or lumps in the jaw or neck
- Numbness or a feeling of pins and needles in the lips, tongue, or other parts of the mouth
- Persistent bad breath or a change in voice
If you experience any of these symptoms, it's important to schedule an oral cancer screening as soon as possible. It's also important to note that these symptoms can also be caused by other non-cancerous conditions, so screening is necessary to determine the cause and rule out oral cancer.
Oral Cancer Screening Near Me
If you are considering oral cancer screening, it is essential that you select an experienced dentist who can provide you with the most accurate diagnosis. Some of the most trained and certified dentists in the state may be found at Assaf Dental in Farmington Hills and Shelby Township, Michigan. Our skilled staff is committed to providing you patient with high-quality, tailored care.
To ensure that your oral cancer screening is safe, comfortable, and accurate, we use cutting-edge equipment and techniques. Our dentists will collaborate with you to perform an accurate analysis of your oral cancer screening. We can help you identify a top-notch dentist in your area, whether you need a diagnosis or treatment for oral cancer. Don’t put it off any longer; schedule an appointment with one of our dentists now and take the first step toward better oral health.
How To Book Your Appointment Today For An Oral Cancer Screening?
It is simple and convenient to schedule an appointment at Assaf Dental in Farmington Hills and Shelby Township, Michigan. Simply call our professional and experienced team at (248) 702-6117. You will be asked to provide some basic information during your call, such as your name, contact information, and insurance information. Our team will then work with you to choose the ideal date and time for you.
You will receive a confirmation call or email once you have set your appointment, and you will be given all of the required information, such as what to anticipate, what to bring, and how to find the office.
Our goal at Assaf Dental is to provide patients with the best possible service and treatment. Because we understand how hectic life can be, we offer flexible scheduling choices and are always willing to work around your schedule.
Don’t put it off any longer; schedule your appointment today by calling (248)702-6117 and take the first step toward a lifetime of confident and beautiful smiles.
