Oral Cancer Screenings – Arlington, TX

Did you know in 2019, it was estimated that more than 50,000 people were diagnosed with oral cancer? Of those who require treatment, it is believed that only about 50% will actually live for 5 years. While these numbers may sound staggering, the truth is that oral cancer doesn’t have to be a death sentence. When caught early, it is possible to receive prompt, successful treatment that results in a cure. At Foundation Dental Solutions, our team wants to lower that number and raise the survival rate by performing an oral cancer screening in our Arlington, TX dental office. These quick, easy, and painless examinations can potentially save your life, so if you’re ready to take charge of your oral and overall health, contact us today to schedule a visit.

Signs and Symptoms of Oral Cancer

The most common signs and symptoms associated with oral cancer include:

• Red or white patches in your mouth
• A lump or hard area within the mouth or around the jaw or neck
• Oral sores that do not heal or continuously bleed
• Sore throat
• Hoarse
• Swelling of the neck, throat, or mouth
• Difficulty swallowing
• Soft tissue color changes

What Does My Dentist Look For During an Oral Cancer Screening?

The good news is that Dr. Baldwin already knows what to look for when screening a patient for oral cancer. This once a year exam requires a visual and physical look at your oral cavity and nearby facial structures. During this part of your visit, he will carefully look for any cancerous cells, growths, or other abnormalities that could point to oral cancer.

Dr. Baldwin will also look at your teeth, gums, inner cheeks, the roof of your mouth, tonsils, throat, and underneath the tongue for:

• Asymmetries of the face
• Areas that may be swelling
• Bumps
• Patches of discoloration
• Ulcerations

What to Expect During My Oral Cancer Screening?

The process of an actual oral cancer screening is nothing to be afraid of. In fact, your dentist will likely do it so quickly, you won’t have time to really think about it. The visual portion of the exam will include simply looking at your oral and facial features as well as inside your mouth and nose. The physical part of the exam will include him feeling your head, cheeks, the area around your jaw, underneath your chin, and inside the oral cavity for any lumps or immobile tissue.

If any of the above-mentioned signs or symptoms are present, and you divulge any problems you may be experiencing at home (i.e. hoarse voice, sore throat, difficulty swallowing), he may refer you to a specialist to have another examination to receive an official diagnosis.

If it does come back that you do have oral cancer, you can rest assured that your dental team as well as your referred doctor will be with you through the entire process. This level of early detection will play in your favor as you move through treatment.