Oral Cancer Screenings | Family Dentists in Brighton, MI

Early detection is essential for successfully addressing oral cancer, and routine screenings are a simple yet vital aspect of preventive dental care. For the exam, our Brighton, MI, dentists will carefully check for any unusual sores, discolorations, or lumps in the mouth, throat, and surrounding tissues. This quick, non-invasive procedure ensures any potential concerns are identified as early as possible. By incorporating oral cancer screenings into regular dental visits, we aim to stay ahead of the condition and prescribe treatment quickly if needed.

Learn more about what you can expect with an oral cancer screening below.

Oral Cancer Signs & Symptoms

Recognizing the early signs of oral cancer is crucial for effective treatment. Common symptoms include persistent sores, white or red patches in the mouth, difficulty chewing or swallowing, unexplained pain or tenderness, and a lump or thickening in the cheek or neck. Additionally, hoarseness, changes in voice, or a chronic sore throat could signal an issue.

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Certain risk factors can increase the likelihood of developing oral cancer. While genetics and family history can come into play here, they are not the only contributing factors. It’s important to bring any concerning signs or symptoms to the attention of our dentists. For example, a sore on your lip that isn’t healing as it should or a velvety patch that develops under your tongue. Don’t assume everything will resolve on its own. Some instances warrant further investigation to be safe.

Individuals with a higher risk of oral cancer include those who:

Are 40+ years old
Smoke or use other tobacco products
Excessively consume alcohol
Have a human papillomavirus (HPV) infection
Expose the lips to the sun without protection, i.e., lip balm

Oral Cancer Screenings Dentists In Brighton Michigan

Awareness of both symptoms and risk factors can help patients take proactive steps toward prevention.

Oral Cancer Screening Breakdown

A mouth cancer screening is a fast, painless procedure often performed ahead of a teeth cleaning that’s designed to identify potential problems before they become serious. It typically involves two main components such as:

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Visual Examination: One of our hygienists will begin by carefully examining the mouth, including the gums, tongue, inner cheeks, roof of the mouth, and throat. They’ll look for unusual sores, lesions, discoloration, or other visible abnormalities that may indicate early signs of cancer.
Physical Examination: Following the visual inspection, we’ll use gloved hands to gently palpate the face, neck, jawline, and lymph nodes, feeling for lumps, bumps, or tender areas. This helps identify underlying issues that may not be visible.

If something unusual is found during the screening, further tests may be recommended by our dentists. This could include imaging, a biopsy, or referral to a specialist for more advanced diagnostic procedures.

Stay Safe With a Quick Screening Today

Taking just a few minutes during your routine dental visit, an oral cancer screening can provide peace of mind and safeguard your health. Our dentists in Brighton, MI, especially recommend regular screenings if you have risk factors or notice unusual symptoms. Call Schaefer Dental Group at (810) 229-2126 to request an appointment and schedule your screening today for a healthier tomorrow.

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