Protect Your Health with Oral Cancer Screening in Raleigh, NC

What to Expect During Your Oral Cancer Exam

Oral cancer screening aims to detect early signs of oral cancer in the mouth, throat, and neck. At Luma Dental Studio, this mouth examination is a standard part of routine dental checkups. Dr. Chi will perform a visual and physical examination on the lining of your mouth, including your cheeks, gums, tongue, and throat, to look for any of the following abnormalities:

• Red or white patches on the roof or floor of the mouth
• Bleeding without any apparent cause
• Gum, lip, or other oral tissues eroding, swelling, or developing lumps or bumps
• Lips, neck, or face pain or numbness
• Having difficulty moving the mouth, swallowing, or chewing
• Mouth, cheek, or neck sores that persist for more than two weeks
• Ear pain
• Teeth movement combined with a chronic sore throat

If anything suspicious is found, we will suggest additional testing or a referral to a specialist to detect cancer early, when it is more likely to be cured.

Importance of Oral Cancer Screening

Even though oral cancer is one of the most common types of cancer nowadays, most individuals choose to overlook it. Many people do not receive a diagnosis until the illness has progressed beyond its first stages. When this happens, mouth cancer poses a severe risk to your life and well-being. Our objective is to identify oral cancer early and prevent its progression, so we recommend screening for the disease as soon as possible and at every dental appointment.

Who Are the Most At-Risk Patients?

Patients with a family history of oral cancer are at a higher risk of developing the disease themselves. Additionally, testing for oral cancer may be beneficial if you have a history of or participate in any of the following:

• Using tobacco products, including cigarettes, cigars, and pipes
• Abuse of alcohol
• Frequent exposure to the sun
• History of mouth cancer

Effective Oral Cancer Screening in Raleigh

Dr. Chi can help you with oral cancer screening if you feel that you are at risk for the disease and you exhibit any of the symptoms of a high-risk patient. Early detection may help prevent the worst from happening.