Oral cancer can affect any part of the mouth, including the lips, tongue, cheeks, floor of the mouth, hard and soft palate, sinuses and throat. When diagnosed in its early stages, oral cancer is often treatable with a high success rate. However, many cases are not discovered until the cancer has reached an advanced stage, making it more difficult to manage and potentially life-threatening. At Smiles On Hampton, we are dedicated to identifying early signs of oral cancer through comprehensive screenings during your regular dental exams.
Why Oral Cancer Screenings Are Important
Oral cancer screenings in Clermont, Florida, are a vital part of your routine dental checkups. These screenings are quick, painless, and designed to identify warning signs of cancer and precancerous conditions in the mouth. Our dentist and team are trained to recognize the subtle changes in the soft tissues of your mouth that may indicate the beginning stages of cancer. Early detection not only improves treatment outcomes but also reduces the extent of treatment needed.
Signs & Symptoms to Watch For
While our team will thoroughly examine your mouth during each visit, it is also important for you to be aware of the signs that could indicate a problem. Symptoms of oral cancer may include:
- A sore in the mouth or on the lips that does not heal within two weeks
- Red, white or mixed-color patches in the mouth
- Lumps, thickened areas or rough spots on the gums, lips or inside the cheeks
- Pain, tenderness or numbness in the mouth or lips
- Difficulty chewing, swallowing, speaking or moving the jaw or tongue
- A persistent sore throat or the feeling that something is caught in the throat
- Unexplained bleeding in the mouth
- Changes in the way teeth or dentures fit together
These symptoms should not be ignored, even if they seem minor. If you notice any of these changes, we strongly recommend scheduling an evaluation with our team as soon as possible.
Your Health Is Our Priority
Our dentist and team are committed to protecting your oral and overall health. During each preventive visit, we will conduct an oral cancer screening as part of our thorough examination process. If we detect any abnormalities, we may recommend further testing or a referral to a specialist for a more detailed assessment.
Staying proactive about your health is essential. By attending regular dental appointments and being aware of changes in your mouth, you take an important step in the early detection and successful treatment of oral cancer. Your wellbeing is our top priority, and we are here to support you every step of the way. To make an appointment with Dr. Amber Rowe and learn more about oral cancer screenings in Clermont, FL, call our team today at 352-394-3001.