908-282-3366
Will I get an oral cancer screening during my visit?
Every check up, whether initial or routine, will include an oral cancer screening. We check your jaws, lymph nodes, lips, tongue, underneath and it’s sides, gums, cheeks, roof of your mouth and the back for any irregularities like ulcers or change in colour that might indicate signs of oral cancer. This is another reason why we totally recommend periodic check ups!
What are the symptoms of oral cancer?
It’s important to be aware of the following signs and symptoms and to see your dentist if they do not disappear after two weeks.
A sore or irritation that doesn’t go away
Red or white patches
Pain, tenderness or numbness in mouth or lips
A lump, thickening, rough spot, crust or small eroded area
Difficulty chewing, swallowing, speaking or moving your tongue or jaw
A change in the way your teeth fit together when you close your mouth
Some people complain of a sore throat, feeling like something is caught in their throat, numbness, hoarseness or a change in voice. If you have any of these symptoms, let your dentist know, especially if you’ve had them for two weeks or more.
How do I know if I am at risk for oral cancer?
Men are twice more likely to get oral cancer than women. Smokers and excessive alcohol drinkers older than 50 are the most at-risk.
The human papilloma virus (HPV), which is sexually transmitted, has also been associated with throat cancers at the back of the mouth. HPV-positive head and neck cancers are related to the rise in throat cancers in non-smoking adults.
I see something suspicious in my mouth…is it cancer?
Stay calm. We won’t be able to tell right away if what we are looking at is cancerous, so we may refer you for testing. We might reexamine you a week or two later to see if questionable spots are healing on their own before recommending additional follow-up. If we work together, we can create the best strategy for diagnosis, treatment and prevention.
If you are looking for a friendly and caring dentist for kids in Montgomery, Belle Mead, Skillman, Princeton, Hillsborough, Bridgewater, Somerville, Neshanic Station, Manville or Central Jersey, give us a call at 908-282-3366 or book online here.