Think you may need an oral cancer screening in Peoria, AZ? Oral cancer can be life-threatening if it is not detected and treated early. This condition includes cancers of the lips, tongue, cheeks, the floor of the mouth, hard and soft palates, sinuses, and phalanx (throat). Although tobacco use, smoking, and a family history of cancer are risk factors for the condition, any individual is at risk for developing oral cancer.
Symptoms
Oral cancer can present several different symptoms, such as:
- Unexplained bleeding in the mouth
- Development of velvety white, red, or speckled (white and red) patches in the mouth
- Swelling
- Lumps or bumps
- Rough spots on the lips, gums, or other areas inside the mouth
- Unexplained numbness or pain/tenderness in any area of the face, mouth, or neck
- Ear pain
- Difficulty chewing/swallowing, speaking or moving the jaw or tongue
- A change in the way the teeth or dentures fit together
Oral Cancer Screening Peoria, AZ
A screening in Peoria is an examination performed to look for signs of cancer or precancerous conditions in the mouth. This exam is usually performed by your Peoria, AZ dentist during a routine dental visit.
The screening starts with a look over the inside of the mouth to check for white or red patches or mouth sores. If dentures are worn (either partial or full), they will need to be removed. Using gloved hands, the dentist will then feel the tissues in the mouth to check for lumps or other abnormalities.
A more thorough test involves rinsing the mouth with a special liquid that reacts to a special light. When the light is shone into the mouth, problem areas and abnormalities appear darker than healthy ones. If any problems are detected, a follow-up visit may be recommended as well as possibly a biopsy to determine whether the cells in the suspected area are cancerous.
Schedule Your Oral Cancer Screening in Peoria Today
When is the last time you had an oral cancer screening in Peoria, AZ? Schedule yours with Plaza Family Dental today!