Oral Cancer Screening
If you suspect you may have oral cancer, contact Fiddlesticks Dental Care in Fort Myers. Oral cancer screening is a service we provide and it might just save your life.
Oral Cancer Symptoms
If the following possible symptoms of oral cancer (also known as oral cavity cancer) persist for more than two weeks, consider an oral cancer screening at Fiddlesticks Dental Care:
- Difficulty swallowing, chewing, or moving the tongue or jaw
- A persistent mouth or jaw pain / swelling
- Ear pain
- Lip or mouth sores that fail to heal
- White/red patches on the mouth lining, tongue, gums, or tonsils
- Tooth pain or a loosening of teeth including poorly fitting dentures
- A lump in the back of the throat or neck
Excessive tobacco and alcohol use may increase the risk of oral cancer.
Oral Cancer Statistics
According to the National Cancer Institute (a part of the National Institute of Health), More than 50,000 oral cancer cases occur annually, about 3% of all new cancer cases.
Oral Cancer Screening
For a check of oral cavity, pharyngeal, and laryngeal cancer, your dentist will assess the oral cavity by looking for an abnormalities including white and / or red patches of cells and lesions. If abnormalities are detected, a cell sample might be excised or brushed for a biopsy to analyze for cancer. Imaging tests and staining of the suspicious areas may also be done as well as an endoscopy with a small camera to inspect your throat.
Early detection is the best way to treat and beat any oral cavity cancer.
The Consultation
Contact FiddleSticks Dental Care in Fort Myers for an oral cancer screening that is comprehensive, consultative, and includes a full discussion of any risks involved in the process. Call us today at 239-225-1145 to schedule an appointment.