Oral Cancer Screenings – Oklahoma City, OK
Stay Safe and Healthy with Oral Cancer Screenings
Did you know that your next visit with your dentist could save your life? That’s because at your checkup with Dr. Joe Isaacson, your dentist in Oklahoma City, he’ll examine your mouth for signs of oral cancer. Regularly screening for oral cancer is vital because the sooner any instance of cancer is caught, the more likely that treatment will be successful. Oral cancer is often hard to detect on your own until it has reached a dangerous point, which makes the screenings we provide at Joe Isaacson Dental that much more important.
Why Choose Joe Isaacson Dental for Oral Cancer Screenings?
- Modern Digital Technology for Superior Diagnostics
- Whole Families Welcome
- Potentially Lifesaving Screening
Signs and Symptoms of Oral Cancer
Even though oral cancer is sometimes difficult to notice with the naked eye, be on the lookout for the following symptoms, and let us know if any of them occur:
- Lumps anywhere in your mouth
- Sores on your tongue, gums, lips, or other soft tissues that won’t heal
- White or red lesions in your mouth
- A persistently sore throat
- Difficulty swallowing or chewing
- Feeling like something is constantly stuck in your throat
- Pain in your ears or jaw
- Spots in your mouth that feel numb
What Does My Dentist Look for During a Screening?
As with other types of cancer, the goal of a screening is to detect any warning signs early on. In fact, dentists alone are estimated to catch about 84% of oral cancers, meaning this short screening process is exceedingly beneficial.
Dr. Isaacson will perform a thorough examination to check your mouth for any cancerous or even pre-cancerous tissue. This in-depth search will determine whether you need a biopsy for further investigation of any issues he notices. If he doesn’t detect any signs, then you’re good to go. However, if he comes across any problematic areas of your mouth, he can get you started on a customized treatment plan to get your oral health back on the right track.
What Can I Expect During My Screening?
An oral cancer screening involves both a physical and visual examination of your mouth. First, we check your entire mouth for any suspicious areas, looking at both the floor and the roof for any potential issues. We’ll visually examine your mouth, throat, lips, and face for any abnormalities that could indicate cancer.
Next comes the physical exam. Dr. Isaacson will feel the lines of your lymph nodes in your neck and jaw to make sure everything is as it should be. In addition, he may gently rub around your jaw joints and ears to check for any lumps or lesions.
Oral cancer screenings can be done quickly at your regular dental checkup. There is no shortage of benefits to these screenings, including the fact that it could save your life. Contact us today to schedule an appointment that can save the health of your mouth and body.