Oral Cancer Screening in La Grange Park, IL: A Potentially Life-saving Check-up
Oral cancer screening in La Grange Park, Illinois, is an essential part of preventive care at La Grange Park Dentistry. This quick, non-invasive procedure can be a lifesaver when issues are detected early.
Are you due or overdue for an oral cancer exam? Don’t wait until something goes wrong. Be proactive about your oral health and schedule your oral cancer screening today. Our office provides thorough screenings to detect irregularities, giving you peace of mind and the opportunity for early treatment if necessary.
What are the symptoms of oral cancer?
Like most cancers, oral cancer doesn’t cause symptoms until it has progressed. However, paying attention to subtle changes in the mouth can make a difference. While the following symptoms don’t mean you have oral cancer, they require a clinical examination.
- A mouth sore that doesn’t improve after two weeks
- Other changes in texture or color
- Feeling like something is stuck in the throat
- Red patches, known as erythroplakia
- White patches (leukoplakia)
- Voice changes or hoarseness
- Dentures that no longer fit well
- Unexplained pain or numbness in the mouth
- Loose teeth
Every year, about 54,000 Americans are diagnosed with oral cancer. Unfortunately, many cases are discovered late because people skip routine screenings. Regular oral cancer exams are essential to detect the disease before it spreads and becomes harder to treat.
What can I expect during an oral cancer exam?
You may be overwhelmed by the prospect of an oral cancer exam, but it’s a quick, non-invasive procedure. Your dentist begins with a visual examination of the lips, tongue, inner cheeks, and palate to detect unusual irregularities. The exam also involves gently palpating your gums and throat for irregular bumps or swellings.
If the dentist discovers a suspicious lesion or bump, they will schedule a follow-up appointment to monitor progress. If the area doesn’t show signs of improvement, the dentist will recommend a biopsy to determine the nature of the irregularity. A biopsy may sound scary, but it’s the definitive test to provide clear answers. An oral cancer exam takes about five minutes, but it’s critical in detecting oral cancer at its earliest, most treatable stage.
How often should I get oral cancer screenings?
Oral cancer screenings are essential for detecting abnormalities before the condition spreads and becomes harder to treat. We recommend annual oral cancer exams, but more frequent check-ups are needed for patients at higher risk.
Key risk factors for oral cancer include:
- Tobacco use
- Heavy alcohol use
- Poor dietary habits
- Family history and genetic predisposition
- Exposure to certain strains of the human papillomavirus (HPV)
- Suppressed immunity
During your consultation, we will inquire into your medical history and lifestyle factors to determine your risk level. Please be honest with us. The objective is not to judge, but to determine a screening frequency and a preventive plan tailored to your health needs.
Where can I find oral cancer screenings in La Grange Park, IL?
Early detection of oral cancer can be life-saving. At La Grange Park Dentistry, our team offers quick, comfortable oral cancer exams during your routine dental check-ups. Dial (708) 350-6707 and schedule your consultation today with our dental team, serving La Grange, Brookfield, Riverside, Hinsdale, Western Springs, Summit, and beyond. Let’s help protect your oral health with this minor preventive step.
