Oral Cancer Screenings in Summerville, SC!
Protecting your smile means more than just keeping your teeth clean and cavity-free. At Seastone Dental, we also look for signs of oral cancer during routine dental exams.
Our thorough oral cancer screenings help us identify unusual changes in your mouth that may need further evaluation. Early detection can make a difference in treatment outcomes, making these screenings an important part of your preventive dental care. Contact us today to learn more and schedule!
Contact UsOral Cancer Screenings in Summerville
What Is an Oral Cancer Screening?
An oral cancer screening is a visual and physical examination of the mouth and surrounding tissues to assess for signs of mouth cancer. Oral cancer can affect the lips, tongue, cheeks, gums, roof and floor of the mouth, and throat. During your routine cleaning and exam, Dr. Palmateer checks for unusual sores, lumps, patches, or other changes in your oral tissues. These screenings are quick, noninvasive, and typically do not cause discomfort.
Although anyone can develop oral cancer, certain factors may increase your risk, including tobacco use, heavy alcohol consumption, high sun exposure, and some strains of human papillomavirus (HPV). Regular screenings are important even if you do not have known risk factors.
Recognizing Oral Cancer Symptoms
Knowing the possible signs of oral cancer can help you recognize when something needs attention. Common symptoms include:
- Sores in the mouth or on the lips that do not heal
- Red, white, or mixed-color patches inside the mouth
- Lumps, thickened areas, or rough spots in oral tissues
- Persistent mouth pain or numbness
- Difficulty chewing, swallowing, or speaking
- A persistent sore throat or feeling that something is caught in the throat
If you notice any of these symptoms, contact our office for an evaluation, especially if they last longer than two weeks. While these changes do not always indicate cancer, they should not be ignored.
Why Early Detection Matters
Oral cancer stages describe how far the disease has progressed and whether it has spread to nearby tissues or other parts of the body. In its early stages, oral cancer may appear as a small sore or patch without causing pain. As it advances, symptoms may become more noticeable.
Finding oral cancer early can allow for more treatment options and may improve the chances of successful treatment. Routine screenings help our team identify suspicious changes before they become more advanced.
Contact UsFrequently Asked Questions
What do early stages of oral cancer look like?
Early oral cancer may appear as a persistent sore, a red or white patch, or a small lump inside the mouth. These changes may not cause pain at first, which is why routine screenings are important. Any unusual area that does not heal within two weeks should be evaluated by a dental or medical professional.
How do dentists check for oral cancer?
During an oral cancer screening, your dentist examines your lips, cheeks, gums, tongue, and the roof and floor of your mouth for unusual changes. We may also gently feel the tissues around your jaw and neck to check for lumps or swelling. If we find an area of concern, we may recommend further testing or a referral to a specialist.
How common is oral cancer?
Oral cancer is diagnosed in tens of thousands of people in the United States each year. Although it is less common than some other cancers, it can be serious when not detected early. Regular dental visits and screenings can help identify concerning changes as soon as possible.
Schedule Your Oral Cancer Screening in Summerville
If you are searching for “oral cancer screenings near me,” Seastone Dental is here to help. Our team includes oral cancer screenings as part of routine preventive care to support your long-term health. Contact our Summerville office today to schedule your next dental exam and take another step toward protecting your smile.
