ORAL CANCER SCREENING IN GILBERT, AZ

Q: What signs can an oral cancer screening detect?

Screenings can identify warning signs such as red or white patches, persistent sores, lumps, or unusual tissue changes.

ORAL CANCER SCREENING NEAR YOU

Every year, thousands of Americans are diagnosed with oral cancer, and the prognosis and survival rates can be greatly improved by early detection. That's why we offer full oral cancer screenings in Gilbert, AZ, at our dental office as part of our commitment to your overall health. These quick, painless examinations could save your life by catching abnormalities in their earliest, most treatable stages.

UNDERSTANDING ORAL CANCER

Oral cancer can grow anywhere in the mouth or throat, including the lips, tongue, cheeks, floor of the mouth, hard and soft palate, sinuses, and throat. Like many cancers, oral cancer is most successfully treated when detected early. Unfortunately, many cases go undiagnosed until they've reached advanced stages because early symptoms can be subtle or easily overlooked. The most typical risk factors include the use of tobacco in any form, binge alcohol consumption, long sun exposure to the lips, HPV infection or a personal or family history of cancer. However, oral cancer can occur in people without 'traditional' risk factors. That is why regular screenings are important for all individuals, regardless of lifestyle.

WHAT HAPPENS DURING AN ORAL CANCER SCREENING

The process is quick, non-invasive, and completely painless. Our skilled team visually inspects all areas of your mouth, looking for any suspicious lesions, discolorations, lumps, or tissue changes. We also feel your neck and jaw areas to check for unusual masses or swelling.

We're looking for early warning signs, such as red or white patches, sores that don't heal within two weeks, unusual bumps or thickening of the tissue, and changes in the way your teeth fit together. Most abnormalities we find are benign, but if we discover anything concerning, we'll refer you to a specialist for further evaluation and possible biopsy.

The entire screening takes just a few minutes during your regular checkup, making it a convenient and vital component of your preventive care routine.

THE IMPORTANCE OF REGULAR SCREENINGS

Early-stage oral cancer has a survival rate of approximately eighty to ninety percent, but this drops significantly when cancer is detected at a late stage. Regular screenings at our clinic give you the best chance of catching any problems early when treatment is most effective and less invasive. Between dental visits, be aware of your oral health. If you notice persistent sores, lumps, difficulty swallowing, or changes in your voice that last more than two weeks, please get in touch with us immediately for an evaluation.

SCHEDULE YOUR COMPREHENSIVE EXAM TODAY

Your oral health is essential to your entire health, and screenings for oral cancer are an important part of your dental care. Higley Dental Care is dedicated to keeping Gilbert families safe through prevention, and we will conduct thorough preventive examinations.

Don't delay in taking proactive steps for your health. Contact Higley Dental Care today to schedule your oral exam, which includes an oral cancer screening near you. Early detection can save your life, and you deserve careful, thoughtful care. Call now to schedule!

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480-988-7007